CttlCACC  -       I    A  I 


puaustic 


NEW  CENTURY 

STANDARD 

LETTER-WRITER 


"When  about  to  put  your  words  in  ink, 

*Tivill  do  no  harm  to  stop  and  think" 


THE 


NKW  CKNTURY 


STANDARD 


LETTER-WRITER 


Business,    Family    and    Social    Correspondence 

Love-Letters,  Etiquette,  Synonyms 

Legal  Forms,  Etc. 

How  to  Address  the  President,  Members  of  the  Cabinet 
and  other  High  Officials 


BY 


ALFRED  B.  CHAMBERS,  PH.  D. 

Author  of  "The  soth  Century  Handy  Cyclopedia  Britannica." 


ILLUSTRATED 


CHICAGO 
LAIRD  &  LEE,  PUBLISHERS 


Entered  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1900,  by 

WILLIAM  H.  LEE, 
in  the  office  of  the  Librarian  ot  Congress,  at  Washington,  D.  C. 


ALL  RIGHTS  RESERVED. 


TABLE   OF   CONTENTS 

PART    I.       BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE 

PAGE 

Chapter  I — Commercial  Correspondence 17 

A.  Introductory  Remarks 17 

B.  Employer  and  Employe 32 

1 .  Applying  for  a  situation  in  a  corporation 32 

2.  Applying  for  a  position  as  bookkeeper 32 

3.  Applying  for  a  situation  in  answer  to  an  advertisement  33 

4.  Applying  for  a  position  in  a  wholesale  house 33 

5.  Applying  for  a  position  in  a  retail  store 34 

6.  A  father  applying  for  his  son 34 

7.  A  mother  asking  a  position  for  her  son 35 

8.  Applying  for  a  position  in  a  law-office 35 

9.  Applying  for  a  position  as  Clerk , 36 

10.  Applying  for  a  position  as  stenographer  (lady) 36 

11.  Applying  for  a  position  as  bookkeeper  (lady) 37 

12.  Advertising  for  an  office-boy 37 

13.  Reply  to  the  above 38 

14.  Applying  for  a  situation  of  office-boy 38 

1 5.  Applying  for  a  position  as  hotel  manager 38 

16.  Application  to  act  as  a  firm's  agent 39 

17.  Applying  for  a  situation  as  matron  in  an  asylum 40 

18.  Indorsing  the  above  application 40 

19.  Introducing  a  young  man  about  to  start  in  business...  41 

20.  General  letter  of  recommendation  to  a  former  employe  41 

2 1 .  Recommending  a  bookkeeper  formerly  employed 42 

22.  Asking  permission  to  use  a  gentleman  as  reference 42 

23.  Asking  information  concerning  a  clerk 43 

24.  Asking  former  employers  to  act  as  references 43 

25.  Asking  for  an  increase  in  salary 44 

Thanking  for  an  increase  in  salary 44 

Asking  for  a  vacation 45 

28.  Apologizing  to  employers 45 

29.  Excusing  one's  absence 46 

30.  Announcing  death  of  husband  to  his  employers 46 

3 1 .  A  commercial  traveler  to  his  employers 46 

32.  Another  letter  from  a  commercial  traveler 47 

5 


CONTENTS 

33.  Resignation  from  a  position 48 

C.  Buying,  Selling  and  Shipping  Goods 48 

34.  Asking  for  an  order  list 48 

35.  Ordering  bill  of  goods 49 

36.  Ordering  goods  and  enclosing  amount 49 

37.  Another  order  enclosing  remittance 50 

38.  To  a  business  firm  inclosing  invoice 50 

39.  To  a  private  party,  inclosing  invoice 51 

40.  From  a  farmer  to  a  commission  house 51 

41.  From  a  farmer,  shipping  produce 52 

42.  Answer  to  the  above 52 

43.  From  a  farmer  to  a  manufacturing  concern 53 

44.  From  ranch-owners,  shipping  cattle 53 

45.  Answer  to  the  above  (with  account  sales) 53-55 

46.  Complaining  of  delay  in  delivery  of  goods 54 

47.  Complaining  of  delay  to  a  freight  line  agency 56 

48.  Answer  to  No.  46  56 

49.  Complaining  of  goods  shipped  by  express  instead  of 

freight 57 

50.  Answer  to  the  above 57 

D.  Credits  and  Business  References 58 

51.  A  new  firm  wishing  to  open  an  account 58 

52.  Answer  to  the  above  (favorable) 58 

53.  Answer  to  the  above  (unfavorable) 59 

54.  Askingfor  references 59 

55.  Asking  a  bank  for  confidential  opinion 60 

56.  Answer  to  the  above  (favorable) 60 

57.  Answer  to  the  above  (unfavorable) 60 

58.  Asking  a  lawyer  for  a  confidential  opinion 61 

59.  Giving  bearer  a  credit,  guaranteed  by  writer 61 

60.  Inquiring  as  to  business  prospects 62 

E.  Accounts  and  Payments 62 

61.  Inclosing  statement  of  account 62 

62.  Asking  settlement  of  account 63 

63.  Asking  firmly  for  settlement  of  overdue  account 63 

64.  More  pressing  dunning  letter 63 

65.  Inclosing  a  remittance 64 

66.  Inclosing  draft  for  acceptance 64 

67.  Asking  for  time 65 

68.  To  a  retail  customer  requesting  payment 65 


CONTENTS  7 

F.  Business  Notices 65 

69.  Dissolution  of  partnership 65 

70.  Death  of  a  partner 66 

71.  Change  in  the  firm  name 67 

72.  Recommending  a  successor 67 

73.  Notice  of  assignment 68 

Chapter  II— Semi-Private  Business 69 

74.  A  gentleman  of  leisure  to  his  bank 69 

75.  A  lady  to  her  bank 69 

76.  To  a  landlord  concerning  repairs 70 

77.  Answer  totheabove 70 

78.  To  a  landlord  complaining  of  neglect 70 

79.  Answer  to  the  above 71 

80.  Making  an  offer  for  a  furnished  house 71 

81.  Asking  a  real  estate  firm  to  list  a  house 72 

82.  Asking  for  a  list  of  houses  for  rent 72 

83.  Asking  information  about  farms  for  sale 72 

84.  Asking  house-decorators  for  an  estimate 73 

85.  Asking  for  time  to  settle  an  account 73 

86.  Subscribing  to  a  periodical,  enclosing  amount 74 

87.  Claiming  lost  baggage 74 

88.  To  a  dressmaker,  about  extravagant  charges 74 

89.  To  a  dressmaker,  postponing  payment  of  bill 75 

90.  To  a  tailor 75 

91.  Applying  for  a  position  as  teacher 75 

92.  Recommending  a  teacher 76 

93.  To  a  lawyer  about  a  claim 76 

94.  To  a  lawyer,  about  a  bill  of  costs 77 

Chapter  III— Private  Business 78 

95.  Asking  a  friend  to  make  a  purchase 78 

96.  Asking  a  friend  to  visit  furnished  houses 78 

97.  Asking  a  friend  to  engage  rooms , 79 

98.  Requesting  the  attendance  of  a  lawyer 80 

99.  Requesting  the  attendance  of  a  physician  80 

100.  Asking  a  physician  for  his  bill 80 

101.  Concerning  an  unpaid  note  endorsed  by  the  writer...  80 

102.  Requesting  a  loan  from  a  friend 81 

103.  Answer  to  the  above 81 

104.  Requesting  a  loan  frdm  a  relative 82 

105.  Concerning  a  furnished  country  house 82 


8  CONTENTS 

106.  Answer  to  the  above 82 

107.  Inquiry  about  farm-house  board 83 

108.  Answer  to  the  above 83 

109.  Inquiring  about  placing  a  sick  child  on  a  farm 84 

no.  Answer  to  the  above 85 

in.  To  a  music  teacher 85 

112.  Answer  to  the  above 85 

113.  To  an  artist,  about  a  portrait 86 

114.  Asking  information  about  a  school 86 

115.  Answer  to  the  above 86 

PART  II.       FAMILY     CORRESPONDENCE 

Chapter    I — Introductory  Remarks 88 

Chapter  II— Between  Parents  and  Children 92 

116.  To  a  son  entering  business 92 

117.  To  a  father,  offering  to  leave  college 92 

118.  Answer  to  the  above 93 

119.  To  a  mother,  after  first  day  in  ^college 94 

120.  Answer  to  the  above 96 

X2i.  A  son  excusing  his  extravagance 97 

122.  To  a  daughter  on  her  birthday 98 

123.  A  son  expressing  dislike  of  his  occupation 98 

124.  A  little  boy  to  his  papa 99 

125.  A  little  boy  to  his  grandfather 99 

126.  A  little  boy  to  his  uncle 100 

127.  A  little  boy  at  school  to  his  sister 100 

128.  A  little  girl  at  school  to  her  mamma 100 

129.  A  little  girl  to  her  absent  mother 101 

130.  A  little  girl  on  a  visit,  to  her  mamma  101 

131.  A  little  girl  to  her  grandmamma 101 

132.  A  little  girl  to  her  brother  at  school 102 

Chapter  III— To  and  from  Relatives,  Guardians,  etc 103 

133.  A  mother-in-law  to  her  son-in-law 103 

134.  A  mother-in-law  to  her  daughter-in-law 103 

13 5.  A  daughter-in-law  to  her  mother-in-law 104 

136.  A  daughter-in-law  to  her  father-in-law 105 

137.  A  sister-in-law  to  a  brother-in-law 105 

138.  A  brother  to  a  married  sister 106 

139.  A  sister  to  an  elder  brother 107 

140.  A  niece  to  an  aunt , 107 


CONTENTS  9 

141.  Wishing  Merry  Christmas  to  a  cousin 108 

142.  A  ward  to  his  guardian 109 

143.  Answer  to  the  above 109 

Chapter  IV— To,  from  and  about  Governesses,  Chaperons, 

Companions,  Housekeepers,  etc no. 

144.  A  governess  applying  for  a  position no 

145.  Asking  information  concerning  a  governess no 

146.  Recommending  a  governess in 

147.  Answering  an  ad.  for  a  chaperon in 

148.  Answering  an  ad.  for  a  companion 112 

149.  Replying  to  an  ad.  for  a  housekeeper 113 

Chapter  V— Servants 114 

150.  A  housemaid  applying  for  a  situation 114 

151.  A  housemaid  accepting  a  situation 114 

152.  A  housemaid  declining  a  situation 115 

153.  Asking  information  concerning  a  maid 115 

154.  Answer  to  the  above 115 

155.  Asking  information  concerning  a  cook 115 

156.  Answer  to  the  above 116 

157.  Asking  information  concerning  a  butler 116 

158.  Answer  to  the  above 116 

159.  A  cook  asking  a  lady  to  recommend  her 117 

160.  A  nurse  to  her  absent  mistress 117 

161.  Marriage  proposal  from  a  butler  to  a  cook 118 

162.  Answer  to  the  above 118 

PART  III.       LOVE  AND  MARRIAGE 

Chapter  1— Proposals,  Acceptances,  Refusals 119 

163.  To  a  young  lady  about  a  misunderstanding 119 

164.  Answer  to  the  above  (kindly) 119 

165.  Answer  to  No.  163  (conciliatory) 120 

166.  Answer  to  No.  1 63   (chilly) 120 

167.  Asking  a  young  lady  for  privilege  of  a  correspond- 

ence     I2O 

168.  Answer  to  the  above 121 

169.  Asking  permission  to  address  a  young  lady  by  her 

Christian  name 121 

170.  Answer  to  the  above 122 

171.  Asking  a  lady  for  an  interview 122 


CO  CONTENTS 

172.  Answer  to  the~above 123 

173.  To  a  young  lady  proposing  marriage 123 

174.  Answer  to  the  above  (favorable) 124 

175.  Answer  to  No.  173  (unfavorable) 124 

176.  Proposal  to  a  lady  the  writer  never  was  introduced 

to 124 

177.  Answer  to  the  above  (favorable) 125 

178.  Answer  to  No.  176  (unfavorable) 126 

179.  Proposal  to  a  lady  unaware  of  the  writer's  intentions  126 

180.  Answer  to  the  above  (favorable) 127 

181.  Answer  to  No.  178  (unfavorable)  127 

182.  Proposal  to  a  lady  to  whom  the  writer  showed  marked 

attentions 128 

^83.  Answer  to  the  above 128 

184.  Proposal  by  a  gentleman  of  small  means 129 

185.  Answer  to  the  above  (favorable) 130 

186.  Answer  to  No.  184  (unfavorable) 130 

187.  Proposal  from  middle-aged  gentleman  to  young  lady  131 

188.  Answer  to  the  above  (favorable) . 132 

189.  Answer  to  No.  187  (unfavorable) 132 

190.  Proposal  from  widower  to  widow 133 

191.  Answer  to  the  above 133 

192.  Proposal  to  a  wealthy  widow 134 

193.  Answer  to  the  above  (favorable) 134 

194.  Answer  to  192  (unfavorable) 135 

195.  Proposal  from  widower  to  young  lady 135 

10.  Answer  to  the  above  (favorable) 136 

197.  Answer  to  No.  195  (unfavorable) 136 

198.  Proposal  from  widower  with  grown-up  daughters 137 

199.  Answer  to  above  (favorable) 138 

200.  Answer  to  198  (unfavorable) 138 

201.  Marriage  proposal  to  an  heiress 139 

202.  Answer  to  the  above  (favorable) 139 

203.  Answer  to  No.  201  (unfavorable) 140 

Chapter  II — To  and  from  Parents,  Guardians,   Friends, 

etc.,  in  Reference  to  Marriage  Matters 141 

2«4.  Asking  a  father  for  his  daughter ' s  hand 141 

205.  Answer  to  the  above  (favorable) 141 

206.  Answer  to  No.  204  (unfavorable) 142 

207.  Another  request  to  a  father  for  his  daughter's  hand..  142 


CONTENTS  II 

208.  Answer  to  the  above f 143 

209.  Asking  a  father's  approval  of  his  daughter's  engage- 

ment to  the  writer 144 

210.  Answer  to  the  above  (favorable) 144 

211.  Answer  to  No.  209  (unfavorable) 145 

212.  A*  gentleman   asking  his  father's  approval  of  his 

engagement 145 

213.  Answer  to  the  above 145 

214.  A  young  lady  asking  her  guardian  to  approve  her 

engagement 146 

215.  Answer  to  the  above 147 

216.  A  father  asking  to  be  told  a  gentleman's  intentions...  147 

217.  Answer  to  the  above _. 148 

218.  A  father  forbidding  a  gentleman  to  pay  attentions  to 

his  daughter 148 

219.  Answer  to  the  above 149 

220.  A  father  disapproving  of  a  gentleman's  attentions  to 

his  daughter 149 

221.  A  mother  announcing  her  daughter's  engagement...  150 

222.  Answer  to  the  above 150 

223.  A  young  lady  announcing  her  engagement 151 

224.  A  young  lady  congratulating  a  friend  just  engaged...  151 

225.  A  gentleman  announcing  his  engagement 152 

226.  A  mother  to  her  son's  fiancee 152 

227.  Answer  to  the  above 153 

228.  Congratulating  a  gentleman  about  his  engagement...  153 

229.  A  fiancee  asking  a  friend  to  be  bridesmaid '. 154 

Chapter  III— Between  Engaged  People 155 

230.  A  gentleman  on  being  first  accepted 155 

231.  A  gentleman  recently  engaged  to  his  fiancee 155 

232.  A  gentleman  offering  a  present  to  his  fiancee 156 

233.  Answer  to  the  above 156 

234.  A  lady  to  her  fianc6 157 

235.  A  gentleman  to  his  fiancee 157 

236.  Answer  to  the  above 158 

237.  Another  letter  from  a  gentleman  to  his  fiancee 159 

238.  Answer  to  the  above 159 

239.  Asking  his  fiancee  to  name  the  day 161 

240.  Answer  to  the  above  (favorable) 161 

241.  Answer  to  No.  239  (unfavorable) 162 


12  CONTENTS 

242.  A  lady  asking   her   fiance"    to  consent  to  a  post- 

ponement of  their  wedding-day , 162 

243.  A  gentleman  to  his  fiancee,  complaining  of  her  cold- 

ness   163 

244.  A  lady  to  her  fiance",  complaining  of  his  indifference....  163 

245.  A  lady  to  her  fiance,  of  whom  she  is  jealous 164 

246.  Answer  to  the  above  (protesting) .-.  165 

247.  Answer  to  No.  245  (conciliating)... 165 

248.  A  gentleman  to  his  fiancee,  acknowledging  his  jeal- 

ousy   166 

249.  A  gentleman  to  his  fiancee,  apologizing  for  his  jeal- 

ousy   166 

250.  A  lady  to  her  fiance,  apologizing  for  her  jealousy 167 

251.  A  mother  to  her  daughter's  fiance 167 

Chapter  IV— Breaking  off  Engagements 168 

252.  A  gentleman  asking  his  fiancee  to  end  their  engage- 

ment   168 

253.  A  lady  to  her  fiance",  putting  an  end  to  their  engage- 

ment   168 

254.  Answer  to  the  above 169 

255.  A  lady  to  her  fiance",  breaking  off  their  engagement 

on  account  of  his  coldness 169 

256.  A  lady  to  her  fiance",  breaking  off  their  engagement 

on  account  of  change  in  her  feelings 170 

257.  A  gentleman  offering  his  fiancee  to  release  her  from 

her  engagement 170 

258.  Answer  to  the  above 171 

259.  A  mother  to  her  daughter's  fiance 172 

260.  A  father  to  his  daughter's  fiance 172 

PART  IV.       SOCIAL  INTERCOURSE 

Chapter    I — Introductory  Remarks 173 

Chapter  II — Requesting,  or  Granting,  Introductions,  Fa- 
vors, etc 178 

261.  A  gentleman  requesting  a  presentation  at  a  foreign 

court 178 

262.  Answer  to  the  above 178 

263.  General  letter  of  introduction 178 

264.  A  lady  asking  a  letter  of  introduction 179 

265.  Asking  a  lady  to  call  on  a  stranger 179 


CONTENTS  13 

266.  Asking  a  lady  for  letters  of  introduction 1 80 

267.  Introducing  a  young  married  couple 180 

268.  A  father  introducing  a  son  to  a  minister 181 

269.  A  lady  introducing  a  friend  to  a  schoolmate 182 

270.  A  gentleman  introducing  a  college  chum  to  his  sister  182 

271.  Asking  a  subscription  to  some  charity 183 

272.  A  young  lady  asking  a  girl  friend  for  a  photograph...  183 

273.  Answer  to  the  above  184 

274.  Asking  a  gentleman  to  be  godfather 184 

275.  Answer  to  the  above 184 

276.  Asking  a  lady  to  be  godmother 185 

277.  Answer  to  the  above 185 

278.  To  a  lady  after  visiting  at  her  country  home 185 

279.  Asking  a  pastor  to  visit  the  writer's  sick  mother  ......  186 

280.  Asking  a  pastor  to  call  at  once 186 

281.  Asking  for  information  from  a  minister 187 

282.  To  a  pastor  concerning  a  school  treat 187 

283.  A  gentleman  presenting  a  young  lady  with  flowers...  187 

284.  A  gentleman  sending  a  song  to  a  young  lady 188 

285.  Answer  to  the  above 188 

286.  An  elderly  gentleman  offering  a  young  lady  a  present  188 

287.  Answer  to  the  above 189 

288.  A  gentleman,  offering  tickets  to  an  entertainment...  189 

289.  Answer  to  the  above  (acceptance) 189 

290.  Answer  to  No.  288  (regrets) 190 

291.  A  stranger  offering  an  invalid  fruit  and  flowers 190 

292.  Answer  to  the  above 190 

293.  Asking  an  invitation  for  a  friend 191 

294.  Answer  to  the  above 191 

295.  Another  request  of  an  invitation  for  a  friend 191 

296.  Another  request  of  an  invitation  for  friends 192 

Chapter  III— Congratulations,  Condolences,  etc 193 

297.  A  lady,  adressing  birthday  congratulations 193 

298.  Condoling  with  a  friend  having  failed  in  business 193 

299.  Informing  a  wife  of  her  husband's  illness 194 

300.  Informing  a  husband  of  the  illness  of  his  wife 195 

301.  Informing  a  daughter  of  the  illness  of  her  mother 195 

302.  Inquiring  after  a  person's  health 196 

303.  Inquiring  indirectly  after  a  person's  health 196 

304.  Sympathizing  with  an  invalid 197 


14  CONTENTS 

305.  A  daughter  announcing  her  mother's  death 197 

306.  A  lady  announcing  her^husband's  death  to  a  brother- 

in-law 198 

307.  Condoling  with  a  lady  on  her  husband's  death 198 

308.  Answer  to  the  above 198 

309.  Condoling  with  a  gentleman  on  his  wife's  death 199 

310.  Answer  to  the  above 199 

311.  Condoling  with  a  lady  on  her  brother's  death 200 

312.  Answer  to  the  above 200 

313.  Condoling  with  a  young  lady  on  her  mother's  death..  201 

314.  Condoling  with  a  mother  on  a  child's  death 201 

315.  Condoling  with  a  lady  on  a  friend's  death 202 

316.  Answer  to  the  above '. 203 

317.  Inviting  a  friend  to  a  funeral 203 

318.  Offering  to  attend  the  funeral  of  a  lady's  husband...  203 

319.  Asking  a  relative  to  attend  a  funeral 204 

320.  Offering  to  attend  the  funeral  of  a  relative 204 

Chapter  IV— Invitations  and  Regrets 205 

321.  Inviting  a  married  couple  to  a  formal  dinner 205 

322.  Answer  to  the  above  (acceptance) 205 

323.  Answer  to  No.  321  (regrets) 205 

324.  Inviting  a  married  couple  to  an  informal  dinner 206 

325.  Answertothe  above  (acceptance) 206 

326.  Answer  to  No.  324  (regrets) 206 

327.  Inviting  a  gentleman  to  a  formal  dinner , 207 

328.  Inviting  a  gentleman  to  an  informal  dinner 207 

329.  Answer  to  the  above  (acceptance) 207 

330.  Answer  to  No.  328  (regrets) 207 

331.  Inviting  a  lady  to  a  luncheon 208 

332.  Answer  to  the  above  (acceptance) 208 

333.  Answer  to  No. '33 1  (regrets) 208 

334.  Inviting  a  gentleman  to  a  luncheon 208 

335.  Answer  to  the  above  (acceptance) 209 

336.  Answer  to  No.  334  (regrets) 209 

337.  Asking  a  lady  to  sing  at  an  afternoon  tea 209 

338.  Answer  to  the  above v....  210 

339.  Inviting  a  lady  to  a  formal  afternoon  tea 210 

340.  Answer  to  the  above , 210 

341.  Inviting  a  lady  to  an  informal  afternoon  tea 210 

342.  Asking  a  gentleman  to  recite  at  an  afternoon  tea 211 


CONTENTS  15 

343.  Inviting  a  lady  to  a  garden-party 211 

344.  Answer  to  the  above 211 

345.  Inviting  lady  to|  a  church  sociable 212 

346.  Inviting  a  lady  to  a  picnic 212 

347.  Answer.to  the  above 212 

348.  Inviting  a  gentleman  to  a  picnic 213 

349.  Answer  to  the  above ....  213 

350.  Invitation  to  a  theater-party 213 

351.  Answer  to  the  above , 214 

352.  A  gentleman  inviting  a  young  lady  to  attend  a  theater  214 

353.  Answer  to  the  above „ 214 

354.  Inviting  a  lady  to  a  small  evening  party 215 

355.  Inviting  a  lady  and  her  daughter  to  a  dance 215 

356.  Answer  to  the  above  215 

357.  Inviting  a  young  lady  to  a  dance 216 

358.  Answer  to  the  above 216 

359.  Inviting  a  gentleman  to  a  dance 216 

360.  Answer  to  the  above 216 

361.  Inviting  a  gentleman  to  a  garden-party 217 

362.  Answer  to  the  above 217 

363.  A    gentleman    inviting    a   young    lady    to  visit    a 

theater 218 

364.  Answer  to  the  above 218 

365.  A  little  girl  asking  a  friend  to  tea 218 

366.  Answer  to  the  above * 219 

367.  Inviting  a  lady  to  visit  the  writer  in  the  city 219 

368.  Answer  to  the  above 219 

369.  Inviting  a  lady  to  visit  the  writer  in  the  country 220 

370.  Answer  to  the  above  220 

371.  Inviting  a  lady  to  visit  the  writer  at  the  seashore 220 

372.  Answer  to  the  above 221 

373.  Postponing  a  dinner-party  on  account  of  a  death 221 

374.  Postponing  a  dance... 222 

375.  Postponing  a    visit    on    account  of    illness  in  the 

family 222 

376.  A  gentleman  excusing  himself  from  keeping  a  dinner 

engagement 222 

377.  A  lady  excusing  herself  from  keeping  a  dinner  en- 

gagement   223 

378.  Resigning  from  membership  in  a  club 223 


l6  CONTENTS 


PART    V 

How  to  Address  in  Writing  the  President  of  the  United 
States,  Members  of  His  Cabinet  and  Other 
High  Officials 224 

PART    VI 

The  Correct  forms  of  Visiting  Cards,  Invitations,  etc.  ...  227 

Gentlemen's  cards 227 

Ladies'  cards 299 

Invitation  cards 233 

For  social  functions 233 

For  weddings 236 

Leave-taking 240 

Notifications  of  births  and  funerals 240 

PART    VII 

Legal  Forms 242 

Bill  of  sale , 242 

Assignment  of  mortgage , 243 

Mortgage 244 

General  submission  to 'arbitration 247 

Release  Deed 247 

General  Release 248 

Warranty  deed 249 

Lease  (short  form) 250 

Agreement  for  warranty  deed 253 

Will 254 

PART    VIII 

Miscellany 256 

Spelling  and  meaning  of  foreign  words  often  used  in  letter- 
writing 256 

Abbreviations  used  in  commercial  correspondence 257 

The  use  of  punctuation-marks 258 

Etiquette  for  all  occasions , 259 

Synonyms 263 

The  use  of  capitals 275 

Postal  rates  and  regulations 275 

United  States 275 

Canada  and  Mexico t 276 

Other  countries • 276 


THE 

NEW  CENTURY 

STANDARD 

LETTER  WRITER 

PART   I 
BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE 


Co 


CHAPTER  I 
COMMERCIAL  CORRESPONDENCE 

A.     INTRODUCTORY   REMARKS 


Considering  the  vast  amount  of  business  transacted  by  corre- 
spondence between  the  parties  interested,  Letter- Writing  seems 
only  second  in  importance  to  bookkeeping.  Merchants  and  others 
living  at  a  distance  from  the  wholesale  centers,  usually  order  and 
remit  by  letter.  It  may  be  that  an  error  has  occurred  and  needs 
correction.  Credit  is  to  be  asked,  references  given,  and  a  multi- 
tude of  other  matters  call  for  adjustment  through  correspondence. 
To  write  every  conceivable  variety  and  shade  of  meaning,  express- 
ing the  proper  thought  in  the  most  fitting  and  appropriate  lan- 
guage, is  indeed  a  rare  and  valuable  accomplishment.  And  when 
the  proper  language  takes  on  the  graceful  and  businesslike  air  of 
the  well-written  letter,  with  its  several  parts  harmoniously 
arranged,  it  is  a  combination  of  brain  and  skill  which  can  hardly 
be  overestimated. 

This  subject,  therefore,  naturally  divides  itself  into  two  parts: 
The  Mechanical  Structure,  and  the  Literature  of  a  Letter.  The 
former,  being  the  less  difficult,  will  be  first  considered. 

17 


1 8  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 

The  Structure  of  a  Business  Letter 

Consists  in  the  arrangement  of  its  several  parts,  with  a  view  to 
the  most  harmonious  effect.  Whenever  typewriting  is  not  used, 
excellent  penmanship  is  very  desirable,  but  not  absolutely  essen- 
tial. The  penmanship  may  indeed  be  poor,  but  the  arrangement 
of  the  several  parts  of  the  letter,  the  neatness,  and  finish,  may  be 
such  as  to  give  it  an  attractive  appearance,  while,  on  the  other 
hand,  the  letter  may  be  clothed  in  the  most  elegant  penmanship, 
and  yet  the  construction  be  such  as  to  stamp  its  author  as  a  care- 
less and  indifferent  person,  devoid  of  precision  and  order. 

Not  one  great  thing,  but  many  little  things,  carefully  watched 
and  attentively  practiced,  make  up  the  structure  and  dress  of  a 
business  letter,  and  give  it  a  businesslike  air.  The  penmanship 
should  be  a  neat,  strong  hand,  very  plain  and  legible,  and  devoid 
of  all  flourish. 

Paper  and  Envelope. 

The  paper  and  envelopes  used  in  business  correspondence 
should  be  of  a  good  durable  quality,  and  a  white  color  is  prefer- 
able. Cheap  materials  are  not  only  unsatisfactory  to  the  writer, 
but  may  give  the  reader  an  unfavorable  impression,  which  would 
be  an  injury  far  exceeding  the  cost  of  the  best  stationery  for  a  life- 
time. Persons  form  impressions  from  very  little  things  sometimes. 

The  size  of  a  letter  sheet  in  business  correspondence  should  be 
about  8j£  xn  inches.  This  sheet  affords  a  sufficient  space  for  a 
communication  of  ordinary  length,  to  be  written  on  one  side  only, 
which  is  essential  in  case  the  letter  is  copied  in  a  letter  press.  A 
sheet  of  paper,  note  size  (5x8),  is  oftentimes  used  for  brief  com- 
munications of  no  special  importance,  and  not  designed  to  be  filed 
for  future  reference.  Among  professional  men  the  note  paper  is 
extensively  used,  but  with  business  men  the  letter  size  is  consid- 
ered preferable. 

The  envelope  should  correspond  in  size  to  that  of  the  letter 
sheet,  and  should  be  a  trifle  longer  than  one-half  the  length  of  the 
sheet.  Thus,  in  a  sheet  8*4  x  n  inches,  one-half  the  length  of  the 
sheet  is  5^  inches,  and  this  requires  the  length  of  the  envelope 
to  be  about  5^  inches.  Its  width  is  usually  about  3%  inches. 
Avoid  the  use  of  fancy  colored  and  fancy  shaped  'paper  and 
envelopes.  These  may  not  be  objectionable  in  social  correspond- 
ence among  ladies  (see  Part  IV,  chap.  I),  but  the  importance  of 
business  affairs  does  not  admit  of  such  display. 


BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE  19 

DIAGRAM  OF  THE  STRUCTURE  OF  A  LETTER. 


COMPLIMENTARY  ADDRESS. 

R 

s 


PARAGRAPH. 


PARAGRAPH. 


PARAGRAPH. 


COMPLIMENTARY  CLOSING. 


SIGNATURE. 


20  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 

The  Heading. 

The  nature  of  the  business  is  usually  printed  or  engraved  at  the 
top  of  the  letter  page,  together  with  street,  number  and  city, 
thus  leaving  only  the  date  to  be  inserted  to  complete  the  heading. 

In  case  the  heading  of  the  letter  is  to  be  entirely  written,  it 
should  be  placed  so  as  to  occupy  the  right-hand  half  of  the  first 
two  lines  at  the  top  of  the  page.  If,  however,  the  letter  is  to  be  a 
very  brief  one,  occupying  only  three  or  four  lines,  the  heading  may 
then  be  placed  lower  down  on  the  sheet,  so  as  to  bring  the  body  of 
the  letter  about  the  center  of  the  sheet. 

365  Wabash  Avenue, 

Chicago,  May  5,  1900. 

Writing  from  a  large  city,  the  heading  should  contain  the  street 
and  number.  Your  correspondent,  in  directing  his  answer,  will 
rely  on  the  address  given  in  your  letter.  Never  be  guilty  of  the 
blunder  frequently  committed,  of  placing  a  part  of  the  heading 
under  the  signature. 

The  second  line  of  the  heading  should  begin  a  little  farther  to 
the  right  than  the  first  line,  as  seen  above ; 


EDWARD  P.  LEWIS.  HBNRY  T.   ROBERTS. 

LEWIS  &  ROBERTS, 
Booksellers,  Newsdealers  and  Stationers, 

1320  Broadway, 

New  York , 19 


Specimen  of  Printed  or  Engraved  Heading. 

If  the  writer  has  a  box  at  the  post  office,  and  wishes  his  mail 
delivered  there,  he  may  head  his  letter  as  follows: 

P.  O.  Box,  2015, 

Philadelphia,  August  10, 


BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE  21 

Writing  from  the  principal  cities  of  the  United  States,  it  is  not 
necessary  to  make  the  name  of  the  State  a  part  of  the  heading,  as 
that  is  supposed  to  be  known  and  understood,  but  with  smaller 
cities  the  name  of  the  State  also  should  be  given.  In  writing  from 
an  obscure  town  or  village,  not  only  the  State  should  be  given, 
but  the  county  as  well. 

St.  Charles,  Kane  County,  111., 

November  15,  19 — . 

The  punctuation  of  the  heading  and  other  parts  of  the  letter  is 
of  great  importance,  and  something  which  can  be  learned  by  a 
little  attention  on  the  part  of  any  one  in  examining  the  forms  here 
given. 

Margin. 

A  margin  three-quarters  of  an  inch  in  width  should  be  left  on 
the  side  of  the  letter,  as  shown  in  the  diagram.  This  is  con- 
venient for  any  mark  or  memorandum  which  your  correspondent 
may  desire  to  make  concerning  anything  contained  in  the  letter, 
but  its  greater  value  lies  in  the  open,  airy,  and  cheerful  dress 
which  it  imparts  to  the  missive.  A  too  narrow  margin  conveys 
the  idea  of  stinginess,  as  if  to  economize  paper,  while  an  irregular 
or  zigzag  margin  conveys  the  idea  of  carelessness  or  want  of  pre- 
cision. tOn  a  sheet  of  note  paper,  the  margin  may  be  only  one-half 
inch  in  width,  thus  making  it  proportionate  to  the  size  of  the  sheet. 

Address. 

On  the  next  line  below  the  heading,  that  is,  the  third  line  from 
the  top  of  the  sheet,  and  beginning  at  the  left  margin,  should  be 
placed  the  Address,  which  consists  of  the  name  of  the  person  to 
whom  the  letter  is  written,  together  with  his  titles,  if  any,  and  his 
place  of  residence  or  business. 

Messrs.  Duncan  Bros.  &  Co. 
Peoria,  111. 

Gentlemen: 


22  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 

Or,  if  the  letter  is  written  to  a  person  living  or  doing  business  in 
a  large  city,  thus : 

Mr.  James  P.  Hutchins, 

Counselor  &  Attorney- at-law, 

510  Chestnut  St.,  Philadelphia,  Pa. 
Dear  Sir: 

The  names  and  residence  should  not  be  allowed  to  extend 
further  to  the  right  than  about  the  center  of  the  sheet,  thus  leav- 
ing an  open  space  between  this  and  the  heading  of  your  letter. 
In  case  the  names  or  place  of  residence  should  be  so  long  as  to 
require  it,  they  may  be  placed  thus: 

Messrs.  Pollard,  Taylor,  Jones 

&  Duncan,  St.  Louis,  Mo. 
Gentlemen: 

The  words  Dear  Sir  or  Gentlemen  are  sometimes  placed  farther 
to  the  left,  as  in  the  above  example,  but  most  business  men  in 
their  correspondence  place  this  complimentary  address  with  refer- 
ence to  the  words  above  them,  about  three-quarters  of  an  inch 
farther  to  the  right,  as  shown  below: 

Arthur  P.  Dillingham,  Esq., 
210  Erie  St.,  Boston. 
Dear  Sir: 

The  custom  of  placing  the  address  beneath  the  body  instead  of 
at  the  beginning  of  the  letter  is  not  much  in  vogue  in  business 
circles  in  this  country,  most  business  men  preferring  to  place  the 
name  and  address  at  the  head  of  the  sheet,  and  then  write  it  as  if 
they  were  talking  to  the  person  himself.  When,  however,  the 
address  is  placed  below  the  letter,  it  should  occupy  the  same  posi- 
tion as  to  the  margin,  etc.,  as  if  placed  at  the  beginning.  The 
custom  is  borrowed  from  the  English,  and  its  use  is  confined 
mostly  to  government  officials,  professional  men,  and  social  inter- 
course. 


BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE  23 

Body  of  the  Letter. 

This  constitutes  the  written  message.  It  should  begin  on  the 
same  line  with  the  words,  Dear  Sir  or  Gentlemen,  leaving  after 
these  words  a  small  space.  In  case  the  place  of  residence  or 
business  is  not  written  in  the  address,  then  the  complimentary 
address  of  Dear  Sir  or  Gentlemen  will  be  placed  on  the  next  line 
under  the  name,  or  fourth  line  from  the  top  of  the  sheet,  and  the 
letter  will  begin  on  the  fifth  line  from  the  top,  thus: 

Mr.  Frank  L-  Robinson, 
Dear  Sir:— 

In  answer  to  your  favor 

Sometimes,  for  the  sake  of  convenience,  and  the  saving  of 
labor,  the  letter  head  has  printed  in  the  left  corner,  above  the 
address,  a  blank  form  of  memorandum,  as  follows: 

Referring  to  )                                        In  reply  to        ) 
yours  of )  your  favor  of j" 

and  after  this  introduction  the  writer  is  able  speedily  to  get  at  the 
marrow  of  his  letter,  without  acknowledging  the  receipt  of  a 
former  communication. 

The  body  of  the  letter  should  be  divided  into  as  many  para- 
graphs as  there  are  distinct  subjects  in  the  letter,  or  a  new  para- 
graph should  be  commenced  at  every  change  of  the  subject.  The 
habit  which  some  persons  have  of  tacking  one  subject  to  the  end 
of  another,  and  thus  making  a  letter  one  continuous  paragraph  of 
mixed-up  information,  instructions  and  requests,  is  extremely 
objectionable.  It  destroys  the  force  of  what  is  said,  instead  of 
fixing  each  thought  clearly  on  the  mind  of  the  reader ;  it  leaves 
him  confused,  and  he  reads  a  second  time  and  tries  to  get  his 
ideas  fixed  and  systematized,  or  he  throws  aside  the  letter  until  he 
has  more  time  in  which  to  study  it  and  get  the  meaning  clear. 

If  the  letter  is  long  and  is  really  concerning  only  one  subject, 
then  it  may  properly  be  divided  into  paragraphs  by  separating  the 
different  divisions  of  the  subject,  and  giving  a  paragraph  to  each. 
These  should  be  arranged  in  their  logical  order.  Wherever  the 
letter  is  to  contain  numerous  paragraphs,  to  avoid  omitting  any  of 


24  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 

the  items  it  is  best  to  jot  them  down  on  a  slip  of  paper,  then 
embody  them  in  the  letter  in  their  natural  order. 

The  first  word  of  each  paragraph  should  be  indented,  or  moved 
in  from  the  margin,  usually  about  the  width  of  the  margin. 
Thus,  if  the  margin  is  three-fourths  of  an  inch  in  width,  the  para- 
graph should  begin  three -fourths  of  an  inch  from  the  margin. 
Some  writers,  however,  prefer  to  commence  the  first  word  of  the 
paragraph  an  inch  from  the  margin,  and  it  is  really  not  so  essential 
what  the  distance  is,  provided  it  be  uniform,  and  all  the  para- 
graphs begin  alike.  A  little  attention  is  necessary  here.  In 
ordering  goods,  make  each  article  a  separate  paragraph. 

Complimentary  Closing  and  Signature. 

The  complimentary  closing  consists  of  such  words  as  Yours 
truly,  Respectfully,  etc. ,  and  should  be  placed  on  the  next  line 
beneath  the  last  one  occupied  by  the  body  of  the  letter,  commenc- 
ing a  little  to  the  right  of  the  middle.  The  signature  should  be 
placed  underneath  the  words  of  respect,  and  begin  still  a  little 
farther  to  the  right.  Thus  the  conclusion  of  the  letter  will  cor- 
respond in  position  and  arrangement  with  the  heading. 

Yours  truly, 

Thomas  Smyth. 

The  language  of  the  complimentary  closing  should  be  governed 
by  the  relation  between  the  parties,  and  should  correspond  with 
the  complimentary  address.  The  first  letter,  even  between 
strangers,  now  generally  commences  with  Dear  Sir  and  ends 
with  the  word  Respectfully.  After  the  exchange  of  a  few  letters 
and  a  sort  of  business  acquaintance  may  be  said  to  exist  between 
the  correspondents,  then  My  Dear  Sir,  and  Yours  truly,  may 
properly  be  introduced.  A  little  more  cordial  would  be  such  a 
conclusion  as  the  following: 

Yours  very  truly, 

Jones,  Smith  &  Robinson, 

The  man  of  business  is  apt,  however,  to  have  one  stereotyped 
beginning  and  ending  to  all  his  letters,  and  seldom  stops  to  dis- 
criminate between  strangers  and  old  customers  in  this  respect. 


BUSINESS  INTERCOURSE  35 

Often  the  conclusion  may  be  connected  to  the  closing  paragraph 
with  perfect  grace  and  ease  thus : 

Hoping  to  receive  the  goods  without  delay,  I 
remain, 

Respectfully, 

Melville  R.  Johnson. 

In  the  signature  of  a  letter,  especial  care  should  be  exercised. 
Bear  in  mind  that  names  of  persons  are  not  governed  by  the  rules 
of  spelling,  and  words  which  precede  or  follow  proper  names  will 
not  aid  us  in  deciphering  them  if  they  are  poorly  written. 

A  Model  Business  Letter. 

210  S.  Sixth  Street, 

Cincinnati,  March  n,  19—. 
Messrs.  Bradley,  Tomlinson  &  Co., 
410  Broadway,  New  York. 
Gentlemen : — 

Inclosed  please  find  New  York  Exchange  in 
settlement  of  your  Invoice  of  the  ist  inst. ,  less  Cash  discount. 

Amount  of  Invoice $2,523.10 

Cash  discount,  $%> 126.15 

Draft  inclosed, $2,396.95 

The  goods  have  been  received,  and  are  very  satisfactory  in  both 
quality  and  price.  You  may  expect  another  order  soon. 

Yours  truly, 

PHILLIPS  BROTHERS  &  Co. 

The  young  person  who  would  learn  to  write  a  good  business 
letter  should,  with  pen,  ink  and  suitable  paper  begin  to  prac- 
tice faithfully  after  the  above  model.  If  necessary,  write  and 
re-write  it  a  dozen  times  or  more,  until  your  letter  resembles  it 
closely.  Then  take  any  of  the  models  for  business  letters  given 
in  this  book,  and,  with  this  specimen  in  front  of  you,  write  a  letter 
which  will  conform  with  the  foregoing  sample  in  appearance  and 
dress.  Write  the  same  matter  over  again,  and  improve  it  in  its 
defects.  Criticise  each  line  and  word,  See  that  no  words  or  let- 


26  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 

ters  are  omitted,  and  that  the  punctuation  is  according  to  the 
models  in  this  volume.  Eliminate  all  ungainly  letters,  see  that 
each  of  them  rests  on  the  line,  and  that,  withal,  your  page  is  clean 
and  regular. 

The  person  who  will  thus  devote  a  little  earnest  study  and  prac- 
tice may  early  acquire  the  valuable  accomplishment  of  writing  a 
pleasing  business  letter,  so  far  as  the  mechanical  structure  goes. 
For  the  contents,  the  model  letter  will  also  [furnish  the  necessary 
practical  points. 

Typewritten  Letters. 

It  must  be  stated  here  that  all  the  above  principles,  rules  and 
recommendations  apply  to  type-written  letters,  as  well  as  to  their 
contents  as  to  general  arrangement  of  the  text. 

It  is  considered  absolutely  bad  form  and  almost  impertinent,  to 
use  a  typewriter  in  social  correspondence.  The  writing  machine 
is  reserved  exclusively  for  business  or  official  correspondence. 

Addressing  the  Envelope. 

After  the  letter  is  finished,  and  before  it  is  copied  on  the  letter 
press,  the  envelope  should  be  addressed.  As  before  stated,  the 
directions  on  the  envelope  must  conform  to  the  address  at  the 
beginning  of  the  letter,  hence  the  necessity  for  addressing  the 
envelope  before  the  letter  is  folded. 

The  first  line  of  the  address  of  the  envelope  should  consist  of 
the  name  of  the  person  or  firm  to  whom  the  letter  is  written, 
together  with  any  appropriate  titles,  and  should  be  written  across 
or  a  little  below  the  middle  of  the  envelope,  but  never  above  it, 


Messrs.  Bradley,  Tomlinson  &  Co., 
410  Broadway, 

New  York  City. 


BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE  2f 

beginning  near  the  left  edge.  The  space  between  this  first  line 
and  the  bottom  of  the  envelope  should  be  about  equally  divided 
among  the  other  lines,  each  of  which  begins  still  farther  to  the 
right  than  the  one  above  (see  page  26). 

When  writing  to  a  person  in  a  large  city  the  number  and  street 
should  be  a  part  of  the  address,  and  may  be  placed  as  in  the  above 
form,  or  in  the  left-hand  lower  corner  as  follows: 


263-65  Wabash  Ave. 


Messrs.  Laird  &  Lee, 

Publishers, 

Chicago,  111. 


In  case  the  letter  is  addressed  in  care  of  any  one,  this  should 
be  inserted  in  the  lower  left  corner.  In  a  letter  of  introduction, 
the  words  Introducing  Mr.  John  Smith,  or  similar  words,  should 
be  placed  in  this  corner. 

Letters  addressed  to  small  towns  or  villages  should  bear  the 
name  of  the  county,  as  follows: 


Mr.  David  Lyons, 

Washington, 

Porter  County, 
P.  O.  Box  No.  37.  Ala. 


28  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 

Or  the  name  of  the  county  may  be  placed  in  the  lower  left 
corner.  The  post  office  box  number  is  usually  placed  in  that  place. 

Folding  a  Letter. 

Having  written  an  excellent  letter,  and  faultlessly  addressed 
the  envelope,  all  may  be  easily  stamped  as  unbusinesslike,  and 
spoiled,  by  improperly  performing  so  simple  a  part  as  the  folding. 
Remember  this  excellent  rule  that,  whatever  is  worth  doing 
is  worth  doing  well. 

With  the  letter  sheet  lying  before  you,  turn  the  bottom  edge  up 
so  that  it  lies  along  with  the  top  edge,  thus  making  a  fold  in  the 
middle,  which  press  down  with  the  thumb  nail  or  with  a  paper 
folder.  Then  fold  the  right  edge  over  so  that  it  falls  two-thirds 
the  distance  across  the  sheet,  and  press  down  the  edge.  Next  fold 
the  left  edge  of  the  sheet  over  to  the  right,  breaking  the  fold  at 
the  edge  of  the  part  folded  over  just  before. 

In  case  a  check,  note,  draft,  bill  or  currency  is  to  be  sent  by 
letter,  it  should  be  placed  on  the  upper  half  of  the  sheet  as  it  lies 
open,  and  then  the  letter  should  be  folded  the  same  as  if  it  were 
not  there.  This  will  fold  the  paper  or  document  in  the  letter  so 
that  it  will  be  difficult  to  extract  it  while  being  transmitted  in  the 
mails,  and  so  that  it  will  not  be  dropped  or  lost  in  opening  the 
letter. 

The  letter  is  now  folded  so  that  it  will  be  of  equal  thickness  in 
every  part  of  the  envelope.  Insert  the  edge  last  folded  in  the 
envelope  first,  with  the  original  edges  of  the  sheet  at  the  end  of 
the  envelope  which  the  stamp  is  on ;  when  taken  from  the  envel- 
ope the  letter  will  then  be  proper  side  up. 

The  Literature  of  a  Letter. 

To  be  able  to  compose  a  letter  requires  more  ability  than  to  give 
it  the  proper  arrangement  and  mechanical  appearance.  A  mind  well 
stored  with  useful  knowledge  as  well  as  command  of  language,  is 
necessary  in  writing  a  letter  on  general  subjects.  The  strictly 
business  letter  requires  a  thorough  understanding  of  the  facts  con- 
cerning which  the  letter  is  written,  and  these  facts  to  be  set  forth 
in  plain  and  unmistakable  language.  All  display  of  rhetoric  or 
flourish  of  words  is  entirely  out  of  place  in  the  sober,  practical  let- 
ter of  business.  The  proper  use  of  capital  letters,  punctuation, 
and  correct  spelling  is  essential  to  the  well-written  letter,  and 
with  a  little  care  and  perseverance  may  be  easily  acquired. 


BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE  29 

Arrangement  of  Items. 

As  stated  before,  each  item  or  subject  in  a  letter  should  be 
embraced  in  a  separate  paragraph.  These  should  be  arranged  in 
the  order  in  which  they  would  naturally  come,  either  in  point  of 
time,  importance,  or  as  regards  policy.  Never  begin  a  letter 
abruptly  with  a  complaint,  but  rather  bring  in  all  unpleasant  sub- 
jects toward  the  close.  In  an  answer  to  a  letter  of  inquiry,  take 
up  the  questions  as  they  are  asked,  indicate  first  what  the  ques- 
tion is,  and  then  state  clearly  the  answer.  The  first  paragraph 
should  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  the  communication  now  to  be 
answered,  -giving  date  and  indicating  its  nature  and  contents, 
thus: 

Your   favor  of  the    10th    instant    concerning 
damaged  goods  received^  etc. 

The  closing  paragraph  frequently  begins  with  such  words  as 
Hoping,  Trusting,  Awaiting,  Thanking >  or  similar  expressions, 
and  is  complimentary  in  its  tone  and  designed  as  a  courtesy. 

Brevity. 

Business  letters  should  be  brief  and  to  the  point.  The  best  let- 
ter states  clearly  all  the  facts  in  the  fewest  words.  Brevity  is  not 
inconsistent  with  a  long  letter,  as  so  much  may  need  to  be  said  as 
to  require  a  long  letter,  but  all  repetitions,  lengthy  statements  and 
multiplication  of  words  should  be  avoided.  Use  short  sentences, 
and  make  every  word  mean  something.  Short  sentences  are  more 
forcible,  and  more  easily  understood  or  remembered,  than  long 
drawn-out  utterances. 

Style. 

By  style  we  mean  the  tone,  air,  or  manner  of  expression.  Dig- 
nity and  strength  should  characterize  the  style  of  the  business  let- 
ter. No  ornament  of  expression  or  eloquence  of  language  is 
necessary  or  appropriate  in  a  correspondence  between  business 
men.  Come  to  your  meaning  at  once.  State  the  facts.  Let 
every  sentence  bristle  with  points. 

The  successful  business  man  must  possess  energy,  decision,  and 
force,  and  these  qualities  should  be  conspicuous  in  his  correspond- 


30  BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE 

ence  in  order  to  command  respect.  Never  use  loose  or  slang 
expressions.  The  business  man  should  be  a  gentleman.  Indulge 
in  no  display  of  superior  knowledge  or  education,  but  temper  each 
paragraph  with  respect  and  deference  to  others. 

Ordering  Goods. 

In  ordering  goods  of  any  kind,  care  should  be  used  to  state  very 
explicitly  the  color,  size,  quality,  and  quantity  of  the  articles 
desired.  If  manufactured  goods,  the  name  of  the  manufacturer. 
or  his  trade  mark  or  brand,  should  be  given.  Also  state  when  you 
desire  the  goods  shipped,  and  by  what  route.  If  by  freight  or 
express,  state  what  freight  line  or  express  company.  Sometimes 
it  is  appropriate  to  write  simply,  '  'By  cheapest  route. " 

Sending  Money  by  Letter. 

Paper  currency  should  seldom  be  trusted  to  pass  through  the 
mails,  as  the  liability  to  loss  is  too  great.  Better  send  draft  on 
New  York  or  Chicago;  P.  O.  or  express,  money  order,  or  funds  in  a 
registered  letter,  and  in  every  case  the  amount  of  the  remittance 
should  be  stated  in  the  letter,  and  also  whether  by  draft  or  other- 
wise sent.  The  letter  may  become  important  evidence  in  regard 
to  payment  at  some  future  time. 

Instructions. 

In  giving  instructions  to  agents,  manufacturers  and  others,  let 
each  order  occupy  a  separate  paragraph.  State  in  unmistakable 
language  the  instructions  desired  to  be  conveyed.  Whenever 
necessary  or  desirable,  a  diagram  or  plan  should  be  enclosed  in 
the  letter.  Cautions  and  complaints,  if  any,  should  be  clearly  set 
forth  in  paragraphs  near  the  close  of  the  letter. 

A  Dunning  Letter. 

w 

State  when  the  debt  was  contracted,  the  amount,  the  fact  of  it 
having  been  long  past  due,  the  necessity  for  immediate  payment, 
and  any  other  facts  depending  on  the  peculiarities  of  the  case, 
which  it  may  seem  best  to  make  use  of,  such  as  promises  to  pay, 
which  have  not  been  met ;  the  inconvenience  as  well  as  injury  and 
distrust  caused  by  such  irregularities,  etc. 


BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE  31 

The  Importance  of  Copying  Letters. 

No  experienced  business  man  ever  allows  a  letter  to  leave  his 
office  before  it  has  been  copied  in  a  letter  book  kept  for  the  pur- 
pose. Although  this  operation  is  especially  important  whenever 
the  statements  in  the  letter  contain  any  clause  obligating  the 
writer,  it  is  better  to  have  the  whole  correspondence  copied,  as  no 
one  knows,  ahead,  the  importance  that  the  most  apparently  insig- 
nificant signed  statement  may  have  in  the  future. 

Answering  Promptly. 

Nothing  does  more  good  to  a  young  business  man  starting  on 
his  own  account,  than  to  answer  promptly  all  letters  addressed  to 
him,  be  they  of  ever  so  little  importance.  Older  firms  will  at  once 
recognize  in  this  single  fact  of  promptness  in  answering  letters  the 
excellent  business  habits  that  make  men  successful.  To  delay 
answering,  when  it  is  not  done  for  a  special  purpose,  and  is  simply 
the  result  of  negligence,  may  often  be  of  the  greatest  conse- 
quence, and  injure  the  credit  as  well  as  the  standing  of  the  writer. 

Employers  and  Employes. 

The  correspondence  between  employers  and  employes  ought  to 
be  characterized  by  kindness  and  firmness  on  the  part  of  the  first, 
and  proper  respect  on  the  part  of  the  second.  Neither  harshness 
nor  subserviency  are  to  be  desired,  as  they  quickly  culminate  in 
disrespect  or  contempt,  or  both.  Applications  for  position  must 
be  carefully  worded,  and  the  letters  written  with  minute  atten- 
tion to  detail,  as  many  a  start  in  life  has  been  made  and  marred 
by  a  first  letter  from  would-be  employe  to  employer. 

Various  Notices 

and  communications  of  a  general  character  have  to  be  sent,  at 
times,  by  business  houses  going  through  the  different  periods  of 
organization,  prosperity,  adversity,  dissolution  and  liquidation. 
These  announcements  are  worded  in  a  more  or  less  stereotyped 
style,  and  we  insert,  in  this  volume,  the  models  for  use  in  such  cases. 


32  BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE 

B.     EMPLOYER  AND   EMPLOYE 

I.  Applying  for  a  Situation  in  a  Corporation. 

A ,  December  18,  19 — . 

To  the  General  Manager  of  the  So.  Electric  Co., 

A . 

DEAR  SIR:— 

I  am  informed  that  the  position  of  auditor  in 
your  company  is  about  to  become  vacant,  and  I  beg  to  make  an 
application  for  the  same.  My  experience  in  this  line  of  work 
extends  over  six  years  as  Assistant  Auditor  of  the  M.  C.  K. 
R.  R.  Co. 

I  enclose  my  testimonials,  and  trust  they  may  be  found  satis- 
factory.    Hoping  for  a  favorable  answer, 

I  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

HENRY  G.  TAYLOR. 


2.  From  a  Gentleman  Applying  for  a  Position  of  Bookkeeper. 

B ,  February  14,  19 — . 

GENTLEMEN:— 

In  the  "Journal"  this  morning  I  notice  your  advertise- 
ment calling  for  the  services  of  a  bookkeeper.  I  beg  leave  to  offer 
myself  for  the  place,  feeling  confident  that  I  am  qualified  to  fill 
it  to  your  satisfaction, 

I  am  thirty-two  years  of  age,  healthy,  active,  married.  I  have 
had  five  years'  experience  with  my  last  employers,  Simpson  & 
Ryder  who  have  recently  liquidated  their  business,  and  who  will 
gladly  bear  witness  to  my  qualifications. 

Should  my  application  tie  regarded  favorably,  I  shall  endeavor 
to  justify  the  confidence  you  may  repose  in  me. 

Yours  respectfully, 

JOHN  HILTON. 


BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE  33 

3.  From  a  Young  Man  Applying  for  a  Situation  in  Answer  to  an 
Advertisement. 

Paste  the  Advertisement  at  the  head  of  the  sheet,  and  write  as  follows: 

O ,  September  10,  19 — . 

E.  B.,  Herald  Office, 
City. 

DEAR  SIR:— 

Replying  to  the  above  advertisement,  I  would 
respectfully  offer  my  services. 

I  am  19  years  of  age,  have  a  good  education,  and  had 
some  experience  in  business,  having  assisted  my  father  in  his 
grocery  store.  I  am  not  afraid  of  work,  and  never  allow  myself 
to  be  idle  when  there  is  anything  to  do.  I  can  refer  you,  as  to 
my  character,  to  Mr.  William  Stuart,  manager  of  the  City  R.  R. 
Co.,  who  has  known  me  all  my  life. 

Regarding  salary,   I    leave  that  with  you,   but  feel   certain 
that  I  could  earn  ten  dollars  per  week. 
Hoping  to  have  the  pleasure  of  an  interview, 
I  remain, 

Respectfully, 

ROBERT  GRANT. 

4.  Applying  for  a  Position  in  a  Wholesale  House. 

D ,  January  10,  19 — . 

The  Lake  Steamship  Supply  Co., 

£) 

GENTLEMEN: — 

Permit  me  to  apply  for  the  situation  as  ship- 
ping clerk,  which  I  have  heard  is  now  vacant  in  your  establish- 
ment. I  am  23  years  of  age,  and  have  worked  eighteen  months 
for  Messrs.  Scotch  &  Irish,  retail  provision  dealers  of  this  city,  to 
whom  I  could  refer  you  as  to  character  and  ability  should  you 
entertain  this  application.  I  left  them  solely  on  account  of  their 
making  a  reduction  in  their  establishment.  Messrs.  S.  &  I.  had 
an  extensive  country  connection,  and  I  have  therefore  had  some 
experience  in  their  method  of  doing  business.  I  may  men- 
tion the  wages  I  received  with  them  were  #12  per  week. 
In  hopes  of  hearing  from  you  favorably, 
I  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

ARTHUR  P.  JONES. 


34  BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE 

5.  Applying  for  a  Situation  in  a  Retail  Store. 

O ,  January  18,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Halifax  &  Stein, 
City. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

I  have  been  informed  that  you  are  in  need  of 
an  experienced  floor- walker  in  your  establishment.  Have  filled 
a  similar  situation  with  Messrs.  Oppenheim,  Rothenstein  &  Co., 
of  this  city,  for  the  last  three  years,  and  there  is  no  doubt  they  will 
furnish  excellent  references  regarding  my  ability,  honesty,  etc.  I 
am  desirous  of  obtaining  a  salary  of  (15  a  week.  If  this  meets 
your  views,  and  should  you  consider  that  I  am  likely  to  suit,  per- 
haps you  would  kindly  favor  me  with  a  reply  appointing  the  time 
to  call  upon  you. 

I  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

SAMUEL  STRASBURGER. 


6.  From  a  Father  Applying  for  His  Son. 

P ,  June  20,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Smith  &  Brown, 
City. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

I  am  very  desirous  of  placing  my  son  in  a  retail 
store,  and  understand  that  you  have  an  opening  at  the  present 
moment  for  an  errand  boy.  He  is  16  years  of  age,  writes  a  good 
hand,  and  is  very  quick  at  figures.  As  he  has  everything  to  learn, 
I  should  be  willing  to  give  his  services  for  three  to  six  months  at 
nominal  wages,  for  the  sake  of  the  experience  he  would  acquire. 
Of  course,  he  boards  with  us. 
Awaiting  the  favor  of  your  reply, 

I  remain, 

Yours  respectfully, 

ROBERT  PRICE. 


BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE  35 


7.  From  a  Mother  Asking  for  a  Position  for  Her  Son. 

H ,  January  14,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Hubbard:— 

I  venture  to  take  the  liberty  of  asking  you  to  interest  your- 
self in  my  son.  I  am  very  desirous  of  obtaining  a  clerkship  ^for 
him,  and  thought  perhaps  if  a  vacancy  occurred  in  your  Bank  you 
would  kindly  remember  him.  Although  I  am  aware  you  must 
have  many  applications  of  this  nature,  I  cannot  resist  taking  the 
chance  of  its  being  in  your  power  to  do  something  for  us  in  this 
way.  He  is  18  years  of  age,  and  has  been  educated  in  Germany, 
which  may  be  in  his  favor,  as  he  is  considered  a  'good  linguist. 
Still,  he  expects  to  begin  at  the  bottom  of  the  ladder ;  he  has  no 
false  pride,  and  plenty  of  pluck  and  perseverance.  I  need  not  say 
how  grateful  I  should  be  if  you  would  consider  this  request. 

Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

LAURA  B.  MILLER. 


8.  From  a  Young  Student  Applying  for  a  Position  in  a  Law 

Office. 

N ,  February  10,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Bacon  &  Blackstone, 
City. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

I  beg  leave  to  apply  for  a  position  as  student  in 
your  office,  and  I  enclose  testimonials  and  recommendations.  I 
am  a  Harvard  B.A.,  and  am  just  finishing  my  second  year's 
studies  at  the  Union  Law  School.  I  feel  very  desirous  of  entering 
the  practical  side  of  the  profession.  I  am  a  quick  stenographer 
and  Remington  operator.  For  the  first  three  months,  I  shall  not 
expect  any  salary,  although  my  whole  time  would  be  yours  out- 
side of  my  law-school  work. 

Holding  myself  at  your  disposal  for  a  personal  interview, 
I  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

HUGH  D.  BARNES. 


36  BUSINESS  INTERCOURSE 

9.  From  a  Young  Man  Applying  for  a  Position  as  Clerk. 

B ,  February  14,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Turner  &  Co. 
GENTLEMEN  : — 

I  ask  permission  to  apply  for  a  position  in  your  estab- 
lishment. In  June  last  I  graduated  from  the  High  School  of  this 
city.  Since  that  time  I  have  attended  Franklin  &  Mason's  Busi- 
ness College,  with  a  view  of  preparing  myself  to  enter  on  a  busi- 
ness career.  I  was  eighteen  years  of  age  last  August,  and  the 
time  has  now  come  when  I  must  devote  myself  to  the  serious 
work  of  life.  Being  anxious  to  engage  with  a  house  where  I  can 
learn  all  the  details  and  become  thoroughly  conversant  with  the 
business,  I  should  be  glad  to  accept  any  position  you  may  have  to 
offer.  I  am  quite  willing  to  begin  at  the  bottom  of  the  ladder  and 
master  each  round  as  I  climb.  My  family  live  in  the  city,  and  we 
are  all  well  known  to  Mr.  Nathan,  who  is,  I  believe,  the  head  of 
one  of  your  departments.  I  beg  to  refer  you  to  him  for  any  infor- 
mation you  may  desire  and  am  also  authorized  to  give  you  the 
names  of  Messrs.  Franklin  &  Mason,  the  proprietors  of  the  Busi- 
ness College,  Main  Street,  and  that  of  the  Rev.  Morgan  Dodd, 
Pastor  of  the  First  Methodist-Episcopal  Church. 

I  am,  gentlemen, 

Yours  respectfully, 

HENRY  JOHNSON. 


io.  From  a  Young;  Lady  Stenographer  Applying  for  a  Posi- 
tion in  an  Office. 

C ,  July  io,  19—. 

Messrs.  Fair  &  Fee, 

Publishers,  City. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

I  understand  that  you  have  a  position  as  stenog- 
rapher vacant  in  your  office,  and  beg  leave  to  apply  for  the  same. 
I  am  a  quick  stenographer  and  operator  on  any  of  the  standard 
machines,  and  have  had  three  years'  experience,  two  of  which 
have  been  spent  with  the  Edison  Co.,  of  this  city.  I  left  them  on 
account  of  sickness  in  my  family,  but  am  allowed  to  give  the  Com- 
pany as  reference. 
My  expectations  as  to  salary  are  about  38  a  week  to  begin  with, 


BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE  37 

I  hope  for  some  increase  after  proving  myself  entirely  satisfac- 
tory. 

Trusting  you  will  kindly  consider  this  application, 

I  remain, 

Yours  respectfully, 

LINA  MUNTZ. 
P.  S. — I  board  with  my  parents  at  above  address. 


zi.  From  a  Young  Lady  Applying  for  a  Position  as 
Bookkeeper. 

217  S Avenue, 

C ,  December  n,  19 — . 

To  the  Manager  of  The  Cordage  Machinery  Co. 
SIR:— 

In  answer  to  your  advertisement  in  the  "Herald"  of 
Sunday,  the  I3th  inst.,  for  a  young  lady  to  act  as  bookkeeper,  I 
beg  to  apply  for  the  situation.  I  am  18  years  of  age,  and  have 
assisted  my  father  during  the  last  four  years  in  keeping  his  books ; 
he  is  a  general  contractor  and  builder.  I  am  quick  at  figures, 'and 
a  good  accountant.  I  should  be  very  glad  to  offer  my  services  for 
a  month  on  trial,  that  you  might  judge  of  my  general  business 
ability  and  activity.  I  live  with  my  widowed  father. 

Mrs.  Willis,  of  190  W Street,  will  answer  any  questions 

respecting  me.     She  has  known  me  since  I  was  a  baby. 
Hoping  for  a  favorable  answer, 

I  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

ETHEL  RAYMOND. 


12.  Advertisement  for  Office  Boy  Wanted. 

Wanted — A  twelve-year-old  boy  to  do  office  work ;  must  reside 
with  his  parents,  and  be  well  recommended.  Salary,  $4  per  week. 

Address,  in  own  handwriting,  B.  D.,  Box  1310,  C Post 

Office. 


3^  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 

13.  Reply  to  Above, 

C ,  July  i,  19 — . 

B.  D.,  Box  1310,  P.  O. 
SIR:  — 

I  would  respectfully  apply  for  the  position  of  office 
boy  as   per  your  advertisement   in  to-day's  "News."     I  am  13 

years  old,  reside  with  my  parents  at  1314  C Avenue,  and 

refer  you   to  Dominick   Drysdale  &  Co.,  of  96  W Street, 

whose  testimonial  please  find  herewith. 

Very  truly  yours, 

PETER  SIMPSON. 


14.  From  a  Lad  Applying  for  a  Position  of  Office  Boy. 

C ,  March  14,  19 — . 

D.  99. 

SIR:— 

Having  seen   your   advertisement  yesterday  in  the 
"Herald,"  I  make  application  for  the  position.     I  am  14  years 
old  and  live  at  home. 
This  is  a  specimen  of  my  writing. 

Respectfully  yours, 

JAMES  DUNN. 


15.  Applying  for  Position  of  Hotel  Manager. 

K ,  July  7,  19—. 

To  the  Proprietor  of  the  Grafton  House. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

Am  I  in  time  to  apply  for  the  position  of  Man- 
ager of  your  hotel,  which  I  am  informed  will  shortly  become 
vacant?  The  fact  of  my  having  been  steward  of  the  Union  Club 
for  the  last  seven  years  will,  1  hope,  influence  you  in  my  favor ; 
several  gentlemen  on  the  House  committee  have  kindly  prom- 
ised to  recommend  me,  and  to  speak  favorably  as  to  my  manage- 
ment of  the  Club  and  general  reliability  and  honesty. 


BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE  39 

Previous  to  being  steward  of  the  above  mentioned  Club,  I  was 

head  waiter  at  the  L Hotel,  C ,  for  over  three  years,  and 

the  proprietors  of  that  establishment  would  also  give  me  the  high- 
est recommendation. 

Perhaps  I  had  better  mention  that  the  salary  I  feel  justified  in 
asking  is  Si  500  per  annum,  with  full  board  for  self  and  wife. 

Should  you  entertain  this  application,  I  should  be  pleased  to  call 
upon  you  at  any  hour  you  may  appoint,  and  beg  to  remain,  in  the 
meantime, 

Yours  respectfully, 

HENRY  DESSAUER. 


16.  From  a  Gentleman  Applying  to  a  Firm  to  Act  as   Their 

Agent. 

H ,  October  13,  19— 

% 

The  Double-Stitch  Sewing  Machine  Co. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

There  is  a  fair  opening  in  our  city  for  the  sale 
of  your  sewing  machines,  and  I  should  like  to  act  as  local 
agent,  if  you  feel  so  disposed.  My  premises  are  well  suited 
for  the  purpose,  being  situated  in  the  business  center  and  best 
block.  I  do  a  large  business  in  hardware  specialties,  and  have 
great  opportunities  of  introducing  anything  in  the  line  of  sewing 
machines,  bicycles,  etc.,  to  the  notice  of  the  town  people  and 
neighboring  farmers. 

I  have  a  young  man  and  a  wagon  constantly  on  the  road,  visit- 
ing farmhouses.  The  H National  Bank  will  give  you  satis- 
factory references  concerning  my  commercial  standing.  I  also 
trade  regularly  with  the  Beelzebub  Stove  Co.  of  your  city. 

When  sending  me  your  answer,  please  also  enclose  circulars, 
rates  of  best  discounts,  etc.,  and  oblige, 

Yours  truly, 

STEPHEN  MOREHEAD. 


40  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 


17.  Applying  for  a  Situation  as  Matron  in  an  Asylum. 

O ,  May  10,  19 — , 

To  the  Lady  President  of  the  Board  of  Managers  of  St.  Agnes 
Orphan  Asylum. 

MADAM  : — 


I  beg  to  apply  for  the  situation  of  matron  at  the 
St.  Agnes  Orphan  Asylum,  advertised  as  being  vacant  in  one 
of  the  morning  papers. 

I  am  43  years  of  age,  and  have  filled,  for  the  last  eight  years, 
the  position  of  superintendent  of  the  dormitories  in  St.  Theresa's 

Home  for  girls,  in  E .     I  thoroughly  understand  the  routine 

of  management  requisite  in  an  institution  of  this  nature. 

I  enclose  three  testimonials  as  to  character  and  capabilities,  and 
trust  that  you  may  be  induced  to  give  this  application  your  favor- 
able consideration. 

I  am,  Madam, 

Yours  obediently, 

MARGARET  O'BRIEN. 


18.  Indorsing  the  Above  Application. 

E ,  May  18,  19 — . 

To  Whom  It  May  Concern  :-— 

Mrs.  La  Crosse  is  able  to  speak  in  the  highest  terms  of  Mar- 
garet O'Brien,  from  a  personal  knowledge  extending  over  six 
years.  She  considers  her  thoroughly  trustworthy  and  consci- 
entious, and  well  fitted  for  the  post  of  matron  from  the  experience 
she  has  acquired  in  a  former  employment.  She  is  firm,  judicious, 
and  kind-hearted,  and  is  very  methodical  and  punctual  in  the  per- 
formance of  her  duties. 

Mrs.  La  Crosse  has  no  doubt  that  Margaret  O'Brien  will  be  a 
valuable  addition  to  the  staff  of  any  establishment  such  as  the  one 
she  has  been  attached  to  for  several  years. 


BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE  41 

19.  From   a  Gentleman    Introducing  a  Young  Man  about  to 
Start  in  Business. 

S ,  June  4,  19—. 

Messrs.  Bartholomew  &  Evans, 

B . 


DEAR  SIRS:— 

This  will  introduce  to  you  the  bearer,  Mr. 
Sydney  P.  Jones,  of  this  city,  who  visits  New  York  for  the  pur- 
pose of  engaging  in  the  book  and  stationery  trade. 

He  is  a  young  man  of  energy  and  ability,  and  withal,  a  gentle- 
man in  every  sense. 

Any  assistance  you  may  render  him  by  way  of  introduction  to 
your  leading  merchants  or  otherwise,  in  establishing  his  new 
enterprise,  will  be  duly  appreciated  by  all  concerned. 

Yours  truly, 

HENRY  MAYNARD. 


20.  A  General   Letter   of  Recommendation   from  a   Business 
Firm  to  a  Former  Employe. 

H ,  June  10,  19 — . 

To  Whom  It  May  Concern:— 

Mr.  John  T.  Kellogg,  who  is  now  leaving  our  employ,  has 
been  in  our  office  for  the  past  two  years,  during  which  time  he  has 
faithfully  attended  to  his  duties,  proving  himself  to  be  industrious 
and  thoroughly  reliable.  He  is  a  good  penman,  correct  account- 
ant, and  acquainted  with  correspondence. 

We  shall  at  any  time  cheerfully  respond  to  all  applications  we 
may  have  regarding  his  character  and  abilities,  and  wish  him 
every  success. 

Yours  truly, 

THE  PAPER  CUTTER  MFG.  Co., 

Per  E.  S.  Ward,  Prest. 


42  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 


21.  From  a  Business  Firm  Recommending  a  Bookkeeper  They 
Have  Employed. 

O ,  August  io,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Burlap  &  Doyle, 


GENTLEMEN: — 

Mr.  Edward  Baird,  the  bearer,  who  is  now 
leaving  our  employ,  has  been  in  our  business  office  five  years,  and 
has  faithfully  discharged  all  the  duties  devolving  upon  him  during 
that  time.  He  has  shown  himself  industrious,  intelligent  and 
reliable.  He  is  a  good  penman,  a  first-class  book-keeper  and  all 
around  office  man. 

We  will  at  any  time  cheerfully  respond  to  any  inquiries  that 
may  be  made  respecting  his  ability  or  character,  and  we  wish  him 
success  in  all  his  undertakings. 

Very  truly  yours, 

MARVIN  &  SCOTT. 


22.   From  a  Young  Man   Asking  Permission   to   Use   a  Gen- 
tleman as  Reference. 

O ,  September  io,  19 — . 

William  Stuart,  Esq. 

DEAR  SIR:— 

I  beg  to  inform  you  that  in  applying  for  a  situation 
advertised  in  the  "Bee,"  this  morning,  I  took  the  liberty  of  using 
your  name  as  a  reference. 

The  length  of  time  I  have  been  honored  with  your  acquaint- 
ance, and  the  words  of  encouragement  which  you  have  given  me 
heretofore,  lead  me  to  hope  you  would  speak  favorably  in  this 
instance,  adding  this  to  the  numerous  obligations  already  con- 
ferred upon 

Your  obedient  servant, 

ROBERT  GRANT 


BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE  43 


23.  From  a  Business  House,  Asking  Information  Concerning 

a  Clerk. 


O ,  December  u,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Darling  &  Cross, 
City. 

DEAR  SIRS:— 

We  understand  Mr.  Harry  P.  Thurston  has 
been  a  clerk  in  your  house  for  the  last  three  years.  We  are  think- 
ing of  engaging  him  should  his  references  prove  satisfactory. 
Will  you  therefore  kindly  inform  us  if  you  consider  him  thoroughly 
trustworthy  and  reliable?  By  favoring  us  with  an  early  answer 
— which  shall  remain  strictly  confidential — you  will  greatly  oblige, 

Yours  truly, 

F.  J.  CANTRELL  &  Co. 


From  a  Clerk,  Asking  Former  Employers  to  Act  as  His 
Reference. 

H ,  November  10,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Darling  &  Cross, 
City. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

I  am  about  to  obtain  a  responsible  situation  in 
the  publishing  house  of  Messrs.  F.  J.  Cantrell  &  Co.,  of  our  city; 
they  have  asted  me  to  furnish  two  references  of  commercial 
standing,  and  having  been  employed  by  you  during  the  last  three 
years,  I  ventured  to  give  the  name  of  your  firm  in  addition  to  that 
of  my  former  employer.  May  I  trust  that  you  will  say  all  you 
can  in  my  favor? 
1  beg  to  remain,  Gentlemen, 

Yours  obediently, 

HARRY  P.  THURSTON. 


44  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 

25.  Asking  for  an  Increase  of  Salary. 

2017  Monadnock  Block, 

C ,  December  14,  19 — . 

Mr.  Oswald  Smith, 
City. 

SIR:— 

Would  you  be  disposed  to  give  me  a  small 
increase  of  salary,  beginning  January  ist  next?  At  my  age 
and  with  my  experience  I  feel  that  I  ought  to  be  earning  more 
than  I  at  present  receive.  Perhaps,  when  you  take  into  consider- 
ation the  fact  that  I  have  been  in  your  employ  over  two  years,  you 
will  not  think  this  an  unreasonable  request,  and  be  inclined  to 
grant  it.  I  need  not  say  that  in  any  case,  while  I  remain  with 
you,  my  best  energies  will  continue  to  be  as  they  have  hitherto 
been,  devoted  to  your  interests. 

I  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

HENRY  LATIMER. 


26.  Thanking  an  Employer  for  an  Increase  of  Salary. 

C ,  December  18,  19 — . 

Mr.  Oswald  Smith, 

City. 

SIR:- 

Kindly  accept  my  thanks  for  the  increase  of 
salary  you  have  been  kind  enough  to  promise  me.  It  shall  be  my 
constant  endeavor  to  continue  to  merit  your  confidence  and  good 
will,  and  to  give  you  every  satisfaction  in  my  power. 

I  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

HENRY  LATIMER. 


BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE  45 

27.  From  a  Clerk  to  His  Employers,  Asking  for  a  Vacation. 

P ,  July  10,  19 — . 

The  Fireside  Publishing  Co. 

GENTLEMEN  : — 

Would  you  allow  me,  if  convenient,  to  take  my 
usual  vacation  at  the  end  of  this  month  instead  of  in  August?  I 
should  be  most  grateful  for  this  concession  if  it  could  be  made  to 
fall  in  with  your  arrangements. 

I  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

DAVID  HARLAN. 


28.  From  a  Clerk  Apologizing  to  His  Employers. 

P ,  July  12,  19—. 

The  Fireside  Publishing  Co. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

I  deeply  regret  the  feeling  of  irritation  which  induced 
me  to  give  you  notice  yesterday :  will  you  permit  me  to  apologize 
for  so  doing,  and  to  ask  you  to  allow  me  to  recall  it?  I  venture  to 
make  this  request  in  the  hope  that  my  long,  and  I  may  say  faith- 
ful, services  will  plead  in  my  favor.  Trusting  that  this  frank 
statement  of  regret  will  meet  with  a  favorable  answer, 

I  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

DAVID  HARLAN. 


46  BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE 

29    From  a  Clerk  to   His  Employers,  Excusing  His  Absence 
on  Account  of  Sickness. 

C ,  March  5,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Brown  Bros.  &  Co. 
City. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

Am  very  sorry  I  was  unable  to  come  to  the  office 
this  morning  owing  to  a  severe  attack  of  illness.  I  enclose  a  cer- 
tificate from  the  doctor  who  is  attending  me,  as  he  fears  it  will  be 
several  days  before  I  shall  be  able  to  resume  my  duties.  I  trust 
that  my  enforced  absence  will  not  occasion  you  any  serious  incon- 
venience. 
With  renewed  regrets,  I  beg  to  remain,  Gentlemen, 

Yours  respectfully, 

JOSEPH  LEVY. 


30.  From  a  Widow,  Announcing  the  Death  of  Her  Husband 
to  His   Late  Employers. 

C ,  December  20,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Ernst  &  Upham. 
City, 

GENTLEMEN: — 

With  the  deepest  sorrow,  I  have  to  announce  the 
death  of  my  dear  and  devoted  husband,  which  occurred  last  night 
after  only  a  week's  illness.  Painful  as  it  is  to  me  to  write  to  you 
under  this  terrible  blow,  I  feel  it  my  duty  to  inform  you  of  it  at 
once,  on  account  of  the  position  he  occupied  in  your  house. 
I  remain,  in  great  grief  and  trouble, 

Yours  respectfully, 

HILDA  WAYNE. 


31.  From  a  Commercial  Traveler  to  His  Employers. 

B ,  April  4,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Roberts  &  Elliott. 
GENTLEMEN: — 

I  enclose  a  batch  of  orders  secured  from  the 
first  six  cities  on  my  route;  I  trust  they  will  meet  with  your 
approval.  I  wish  that,  this  being  my  first  trip  in  your  interest, 


BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE  47 

the  orders  were  more  in  number  and  for  larger  amounts.  I  have 
done  my  best,  however,  to  head  off  some  of  my  competitors,  and 
in  several  cases  I  have  been  successful.  A  few  got  ahead  of  me  in 
the  matter  of  time,  but  I  do  not  think  they  did  much  business. 

I  firmly  believe  that  the  goods  I  offer  are  unsurpassed  in  their 
line,  and  that  the  prices  and  terms  ought  to  call  forth  an  instant 
and  generous  response  on  the  part  of  the  trade.  But  times  are 
dull  and  business  men,  just  now,  seem  to  be  over-cautious. 

They  seem  perfectly  satisfied  with  our  goods,  prices  and  terms, 
but  they  are,  nevertheless,  terribly  afraid  of  overstocking  them- 
selves. Any  number  of  promises  are  made  to  order  in  a  short 
time — but  we  all  know  what  these  promises  amount  to.  In  spite 
of  all,  I  am  impressed  with  the  hopeful  spirit  that  prevails.  There 
is  a  general  feeling  that  better  times  are  in  sight.  When  confi- 
dence is  fully  restored,  I  have  no  doubt  we  shall  have  a  splendid 
trade. 

Kindly  keep  me  posted  on  any  novelties  you  may  have  on  hand. 

With  the  repeated  assurance  of  my  determination  to  do  all  I  can 
in  your  interest, 

I  am,  Gentlemen, 

Yours  respectfully, 

ISAAC  SlLBERSTEIN. 


Another  Letter  from  a  Commercial  Traveler  to  His 
Employers. 

B ,  August  3,  19—. 

Messrs.  Dudley  Bros.  &  Co., 

N . 

GENTLEMEN:— 

Enclosed  please  find  a  list  of  ten  orders  which 
I  have  taken  from  some  of  our  regular  customers  in  this  city.  I 
have  been  able  to  extend  our  trade  by  adding  two  new  firms  to 
our  list,  and  I  believe  in  both  instances  you  will  find  them  good 

and  reliable.     I  proceed  to-morrow  to  P ,  where  I   propose 

remaining  two  days ;  my  address  will  be,  The  Continental. 

Yours  obediently, 

ROBERT  WOODS. 


48  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 

33.     Resigning  a  Position. 

C ,  May  30,  19—. 

Messrs.  Smith  &  Robinson, 
City. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

I  hereby  take  the  liberty  of  handing  in  my 
resignation  as  second  bookkeeper  in  your  establishment,  to  take 
effect,  if  convenient  to  you,  from  June  isth  prox.  I  have  been 
offered  a  partnership  in  the  •  firm  of  which  my  prospective  father- 
in-law  is  the  head,  and  the  advantages  are  such  as  to  preclude  my 
hesitating  a  moment. 

Thanking  you  for  your  kindly  treatment  of  me  while  in  your 
employ, 

I  remain, 

Yours  respectfully, 

ANDREW  THOMPSON. 


C.     BUYING,  SELLING  AND  SHIPPING  GOODS 


34.  To  a  Business  House,  Asking  for  Their  Order  List. 

A ,  May  3,  19—. 

Laird  &  Lee,  Publishers, 

263-265  Wabash  Avenue,  Chicago. 
GENTLEMEN:— 

I  have  recently  leased  a  store  in  this  place, 
which  I  am  fitting  up  and  stocking  with  a  fine  selection  of  Books, 
News,  Stationery,  etc. 

Please   oblige    me   with   your   catalogue,  order  list  and  best 
terms. 

I  am  respectfully  yours, 

MARTIN  NORRIS. 


BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE  49 

35.  Ordering  a  Bill  of  Goods  from  a  Wholesale  House. 

O ,  April  7,  19—. 

[essrs.  Clarkson  &  Co. 

GENTLEMEN  : — 
Please  forward  by  Fast  Freight  the  following  goods: 

4  bbls.  Granulated  Sugar, 
200  Ibs.  Carolina  Rice, 
7  chests  uncolored  Japan  Tea, 
12  sacks  Java  Coffee  (roasted,  not  ground), 
15  bbls.  Flour  (XXX), 
4  boxes  of  Sapolio, 
i  chest  English  Breakfast  Tea. 

I  will  remit  the  amount  of  invoice  on  receipt  of  shipment. 

Yours  respectfully, 

FRANCIS  D.  POST. 


36.  Ordering  Goods  and  Inclosing  Amount  of  Bill. 

L ,  June  10,  19—. 

[essrs.  Sullivan  Brothers, 

P . 

GENTLEMEN:— 

Please  ship  us  by  Fast  Freight  as  soon  as  pos- 
sible the  following  order  for  which  we  enclose  draft  as  per  memo- 
randum bill  sent  us: 

3  hhds.  N.  O.  Molasses, 

1  bbl.  Granulated  Sugar, 

5  chests  English  Breakfast  Tea, 

2  sacks  Mocha  Coffee,  wanted  not  ground, 
5  boxes  Colgate's  Toilet  Soap. 

Kindly  mail  receipted  bill  and  oblige. 

Yours  respectfully, 

SILAS  MARNER  &  SONS. 


50  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 

37.  Another  Order  for  Goods  Inclosing  Remittance. 

R  -  ,  March  5,  19  —  . 
Messrs.  Danfield  &  Marsh, 


GENTLEMEN:  — 

Please  forward  at  once,  by  American  Express,  to 


my  address 


i  Lancaster  Spread    .........      $3.50 

12  yds.  Gingham,  small  check  (150)  .    .    .    .        1.80 

3  doz.  Napkins  (83)    .........        9.00 


814-30 

For  which  I  inclose  P.  O.  money  order. 

Hoping  to  receive  the  goods  without  delay,  I  am, 

Respectfully, 

MILES  STANDISH,  JR. 


38.  From  a  Business  Firm,  Inclosing  an  Invoice. 

C — ,  November  15,  19 — . 

Henry  Upham,  Esq., 

H — . 

DEAR  SIR:— 

Inclosed  please  find  invoice  of  goods  amounting 
to  8271.85,  shipped  you  this  day  by  Graham  &  Morton  S.  S.  Co., 
as  per  your  order  of  the  yth  inst. 

Hoping  that  the    order    may    prove  satisfactoiy,  and  that  we 
may  receive  further  favors. 

We  remain, 

Yours  truly, 

DUNHAM  BROS.  &  Co. 


BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE  51 


39.  From  a  Business   House    to   a   Private   Party,  Inclosing 

Invoice. 

C ,  April  8,  19—. 

Mrs.  Phillip  D.  Stuart, 

M . 

DEAR  MADAM: — 

We  have  this  day  shipped  to  your  address,  per 
Adams  Express,  the  goods  ordered  in  your  favor  of  the  roth  inst. 
Enclosed  you  will  please  find  invoice  of  the  same,  amounting 
to  833. 

Hoping  that  the  shipment  may  arrive  safely  and  prove  satisfac- 
tory, and  soliciting  further  orders, 
We  are, 

Very  respectfully  yours, 

BERTRAM  BROS.  &  Co. 


40.  From  a  Farmer  to  a  Commission  House  That  Has  Been 
Recommended  to  Him. 

Riverview  Corners,  Mich.,  March  i,  19 — . 
Messrs.  Smith  &  Smith, 

Produce  Commission  Merchants, 
Chicago. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

My  old  friend,  Farmer  Harry  Jones,  of 

St.  Joseph,  spoke  to  me,  the  other  day,  about  your  firm,  and  the 
satisfactory  business  relations  he  has  had  with  you  for  the  past 
three  years.  I  have  decided  to  place  the  sale  of  my  produce  in 
your  hands.  I  ship  every  year  about 

5,000  bu.  of  Rose  Potatoes, 
1,200  bu.  of  Turnips, 
3,500  bu.  of  Carrots, 
and  a  lot  of  other  garden  truck. 

We  are  on  the  Father  Marquette  R.  R.,  and  also  about  five 

miles  from  Lake  Michigan.     Please  let  me  know  your  best  terms 

for  handling  my  stuff  on  the  Chicago  market,  and  how  promptly 

you  remit  after  sales  are  completed. 

I  may  have  some  peaches,  apples  and  grapes  for  you,  during  the 


52  BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE 

season,  although  I  ship  most  of  my  fruit  to  Grand  Rapids,  where 
I  have  had  a  ready  market  for  nearly  four  years. 
Hoping  to  hear  from  you  soon,  I  remain, 

Yours  truly, 

SILAS  MARNER. 

41.  From  a  Farmer  Sending  Produce  to  a  Commission  House. 

S ,  Mich,  August  20,  19—. 

Messrs.  Smith  &  Smith, 
Chicago. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

I  ship  you  this  day,  by  S.S.  "City  of  Milwau- 
kee, of  the  G.  &  M.  Line: 

80  bu.  Peaches, 

which  please  sell  to  best  advantage  for  my  account,  and  remit  pro- 
ceeds to 

Yours  truly, 

HENRY  JONES. 

42.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

Mr.  Henry  Jones,  C ,  August  25,  19—.    - 

S ,  Mich. 

DEAR  SIR:— 

Your  consignment  of  Peaches  per  S.S.  "City 
of  Milwaukee  (G.  &  M.  Line),  announced  in  your  favor  of  2oth 
inst.,  was  duly  delivered  us  August  2ist.  The  sales  were  as  fol- 
lows: 

50  bu.  @  soc $25.00 

25  bu.  @  450 11.25 

5  bu.  @  4oc 2.00 

Sobu.                                                             Total,  $38.25 
Less    charges    and    commission    as  per 
Account  Sales  inclosed 16. 75 

Net  proceeds $21.40 

For  which  please  find  our  check  inclosed  on  First  National  Bank 
of  our  city. 

Hoping  to  be  favored  with  further  consignments, 

We  remain, 

Yours  truly, 

SMITH  &  SMITH. 


BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE  53 

43.  From  a  Farmer  to  a  Manufacturing  Concern. 

Richmond  Center,  Ohio,  September  10,  19 — . 
The  Windmill  Building  Co. 

C ,  Ohio. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

Will  you  please  send  me  your  catalogue  of 
Windmills,  with  lowest  discount  for  cash,  or  best  terms  for  payments 
in  installments? 

How  long  would  it  take  you  to  deliver  the  mill,  and  have  it  built 
on  my  place  under  your  supervision?  I  am  anxious  to  have  it 
running  in  good  order  before  the  eold  weather  sets  in.  In  our 
part  of  the  country,  it  gets  pretty  cold  early  in  October. 

Hoping  for  an  early  reply, 

I  remain, 

Yours  truly, 

SIMEON  TRUEBLADE 


44.  From  a  Firm  of  Ranch-Owners  Shipping  Cattle  to  a 
Commission  House. 


Belvidere,  Texas,  September  10, 
To  the  Live  Stock  Commission  Co., 
Chicago. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

We  ship  this  day,  subject  to  your  order,  per  M. 
T.  &  K.  R.  R. : 

76  head  of  Cattle, 

which  please  dispose  of  at  best  available  prices,  and  remit  pro- 
ceeds less  usual  charges  and  commission. 

We  remain, 

Yours  truly, 

SIMPSON  BROTHERS. 


45.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

Chicago,  September  16,  19—. 
Messrs.  Simpson  Bros., 
Belvidere,  Texas. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

Your  shipment  of  76  head  cattle,  referred  to  in 
your  favor  of  loth  inst,  was  delivered  us  on  the  i4th  inst,  in  fairly 


54  BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE 

good  order,  by  C.  B.  &  Q.  R.  R.  Co.    We  sold  them  to-day  in  open 

market  at  $5,  or  gross $4,260.50. 

Deducting  usual  charges  and  commission 
as  per  our  Account  Sales  attached     .     .  323.50 


Net  proceeds $3.937-oo 

For  which  find  certified  check  to  your  order,  drawn  upon  the 
Stock  Yards  National  Bank  of  our  city,  which  please  acknowl- 
edge. 

Holding  ourselves  at  your  disposal  for  further  consignments, 

We  remain, 

Yours  truly, 
THE  LIVE  STOCK  COMMISSION  Co., 

Per  H.  Roberts,  Prest. 


46.  Complaining  of  Delay  in  the  Delivery  of  Goods. 

p f  December  10,  19 — . 

The  Stanley  Book  Jobbing  Co. 
L / 

GENTLEMEN: — 

We  have  now  been  expecting  for  over  two 
weeks  the  case  of  books  for  which  you  mailed  us  invoice  on  the 
2oth  ult.  We  fail  to  understand  the  reason  for  such  an  unwar- 
ranted delay  in  the  delivery  of  these  goods,  shipped,  we  under- 
stand from  your  letter,  over  the  "Blue  Line/*  and  which  ought 
not  to  have  been  more  than  four  days  in  transit  between  your  city 
and  ours. 

As  the  holiday  season  has  practically  begun,  we  are  in  great 
need  of  these  books,  and  would  lose  much  of  our  chance  of  selling 
them  if  their  delivery  were  delayed  much  longer.  Kindly  trace 
the  case  at  once,  and  let  us  hear  from  you  regarding  it  as  soon  as 
possible. 

We  remain, 

Yours  truly,    * 

STONINGTON  &  Co. 


BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE 


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5$  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 

47,  Complaining  to  a  Freight  Line  Agency  of  Unwarrantable 
Delay  in  the  Delivery  of  Goods. 

L ,  December  12,  19 — . 

To  the  L Manager  of  the  "Blue  Line"  Agency, 

DEAR  SIR:— 

We  are  in  receipt  of  a  letter  dated  loth  inst. 
from  Messrs.  Stonington  &  Co. ,  Booksellers,  of  P ,  complain- 
ing of  not  having  received  up  to  that  date  a  case  of  books  we 
shipped  tliem  over  your  line  on  the  20th  ult.  The  case  was 
marked  "S.  C.,"  and  we  hold  your  receipt  for  same.  The  delay 
in  delivery,  at  this  time  of  year,  is  causing  serious  inconvenience 
to  our  customers,  and  we  earnestly  hope  that  the  case  will  be 
traced  by  telegraph  and  that  you  may  be  able,  within  the  next  few 
hours,  to  notify  us  that  it  has  finally  reached  its  destination. 

To  avoid  loss  of  time,  we  send  you  this  letter  by  messenger. 
Trusting  that  you  will  do  your  best  to  have  this  matter  straight- 
ened out  at  once, 

We  remain, 

Yours  truly. 
THE  STANLEY  BOOK  JOBBING  Co., 

Per  P.  Dunmore,  Secy. 

48.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

L ,  December  12,  19—. 

The  Stanley  Book  Jobbing  Co., 

GENTLEMEN: — 

In  answer  to  your  favor  of  even  date,  to  which 
we  gave  our  immediate  attention,  we  are  happy  to  say  that  we 
just  received  telegraphic  notice  that  the  case  of  books  marked 
"S.  C."  was  delivered  this  a.m.  to  Messrs.  Stonington  &  Co.,  of 

P .     The  cause  of  delay  was  due  to  the  misdirection  of  a  car, 

which  it  tpok  us  about  four  days  to  trace  up.  Regretting  this 
delay,  and  hoping  that  it  will  not  have  caused  you  and  your  cus- 
tomer any  serious  inconvenience, 

We  remain, 

Yours  truly, 
THE  BLUE  LINE  AGENCY, 

Per  D.  D. 


BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE  57 

49.  Complaining  of  Goods  having  been  Shipped  by  Express 
instead  of  Freight,  as  Ordered. 

D ,  January  22,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Johnson  &  Brothers, 

GENTLEMEN: — 

We  were  much  surprised  to  receive  to-day 
the  last  bill  of  goods  shipped  via  the  American  Express  instead  ot 
the  A.  B.  D.  R.  R.  Co.,  as  we  especially  instructed  you,  in  our 
letter  of  the  loth  inst.,  to  make  the  shipment  by  freight  and  not  by 
express.  As  a  consequence  the  cost  of  transportation  was  33- 10 
more  than  it  would  have  been  by  freight.  Kindly  let  us  hear 
from  you  how  the  mistake  was  made,  and  believe  us, 

Yours  truly, 

•     WILSON,  DAY  &  Co. 


50.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

C ,  January  25,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Wilson,  Day  &  Co., 
D . 

GENTLEMEN: — 

Answering  your  favor  of  22d  inst.,  we  deeply 
regret  that  the  mistake  was  made  in  the  route  chosen  for  the 
shipment  of  your  last  order.  By  referring  to  your  favor  of  loth 
inst.,  we  find  that  you  had  ordered  the  package  sent  by  freight 
if  it  weighed  over  25  pounds.  To  compensate  you  for  extra 
expense  incurred,  we  credit  your  account  with  $3.10,  difference 
between  freight  and  express  rates  in  the  invoice  herein  men- 
tioned. 

Hoping  that  this  settlement  of  the  little  difficulty  will  prove  per- 
fectly satisfactory,  and  confidently  expecting  further  orders,       « 
We  remain, 

Yours  very  truly. 

JOHNSON  BROTHERS, 


58  BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE 

D.    CREDITS  AND   BUSINESS   REFERENCES 


51.  From  a  New  Business  Firm  Desirous  of  Opening  an 
Account. 

Messrs.  Holmes  &  Wilson,  C ,  December  10,  19 — . 

GENTLEMEN: — 

Having  recently  established  myself  in  the  retail 
Hardware  business  in  this  city,  with  fair  prospects  of  success,  and 
being  in  need  of  goods  from  time  to  time,  I  would  like  to  open  an 
account  with  your  highly  respected  house. 

My  capital  is  small,  but  I  have  the  satisfaction  of  knowing  that 
what  little  I  possess  is  the  fruit  of  my  own  industry  and  saving. 
I  can  refer  you  to  the  well-known  firm  of  Smith,  Day  &  Co.,  of 
your  city,  as  to  my  character  and  standing. 

Should  my  reference  prove  satisfactory,  please  forward  me  at 
once,  by  Adams  Express: 

2  Butcher's  Bow  Saws, 

j£  doz.  Mortise  Locks,  with  Porcelain  Knobs, 
2  kegs  8d  Nails, 

and  charge  to  my  account.     My  habit  is  to  settle  on  the  2oth  all 
bills  rendered  on  or  before  the  ist  of  each  and  every  month. 
Hoping  that  my  order  may  receive  your  usual  prompt  attention, 

I  am, 

Yours  respectfully, 

WILLIAM  T.  BROWNING. 


52.  Favorable  Answer  to  the  Above. 
Mr.  William  T.  Browning,  N ,  December  14,  19 — . 

DEAR  SIR:— 

We  take  pleasure  in  filling  this  day  the  order 
inclosed  in  your  favor  of  loth  inst. ,  as  your  reference  proved  quite 
satisfactory.  You  will  find  that  we  have  given  you  the  best  terms 
customary  in  our  business.  Hoping  to  be  frequently  favored 
with  your  patronage, 

We  remain, 

Yours  truly, 

HOLMES  &  WILSON. 


BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE  59 

53.  Unfavorable  Answer  to  No.  51. 

N  -  ,  December  14,  19—. 


Mr.  William  T.  Browning, 


DEAR  SIR:— 

In  reply  to  your  favor  of  loth  inst.,  we  have  to 
say  that  we  must  ask  you  to  remit  the  cash  before  filling  your 
order. 

We  trust  that  you  will  not  consider  us  unnecessarily  harsh ;  we 
know  nothing  of  your  business  methods,  and  as  the  profit  on  our 
goods  is  so  close,  we  prefer  not  to  open  an  account. 

Perhaps  we  may  become  better  acquainted  in  the  future. 
Awaiting  your  reply, 

We  remain, 

Respectfully  yours, 

HOLMES  &  WILSON. 


54.  From  a  Wholesale  Firm,  asking  for  References. 

C ,  May  ix,  19—. 

Messrs.  Sullivan  &  Co., 
X . 

GENTLEMEN: — 

We  understand  that  you  are  desirous  of  open- 
ing an  account  with  our  firm.  Will  you  favor  us  with  two  refer- 
ences, as  we  have  hitherto  had  no  business  transactions  with  you? 
In  all  cases  when  cash  payments  do  not  accompany  the  orders 
received  from  firms  personally  unknown  to  us,  it  is  our  rule  to 
ask  for  references. 

We  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

SINGLETON  &  PRICE. 


60  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 

55.  To  a  Bank,  asking  a  Confidential  Opinion  concerning  a 
Firm  in  their  City. 

C ,  May  15,  19—. 

The  Fifth  National  Bank  of  X . 

GENTLEMEN: — 

We  are  about  to  engage  in  rather  extensive 
transactions  with  the  firm  of  Sullivan  &  Co.,  of  your  city,  and  as 
a  matter  of  precaution  we  venture  to  ask  if  you  can  give  us  any 
information,  in  the  strictest  confidence,  respecting  their  commercial 
position,  and  the  estimation  in  which  they  are  held. 

Trusting  that,  if  it  is  in  your  power,  you  will  so  far  oblige  us,  and 
holding  ourselves  ready  to  reciprocate, 
We  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

SINGLETON  &  PRICE. 

56.  Favorable  Answer  to  the  Above. 

Messrs.  Singleton  &  Price,  X ,  May  18,  19—. 

£ ^ 

DEAR  SIRS:— 

Replying  to  your  favor  of  the  isth  inst.,  we 
beg  to  say  our  business  relations  with  Messrs.  Sullivan  &  Co.  have 
been  hitherto  most  satisfactory,  and  we  have  a  personal  esteem 
for  them  as  men  of  thorough  integrity. 

Yours  truly, 

THE  FIFTH  NATIONAL  BANK  OF  X , 

Per  H.  Fletcher,  Cashier. 


57.  Unfavorable  Answer  to  No.  55. 
Messrs.  Singleton  &  Price,  X ,  May  18,  19—. 

DEAR  SIRS:— 

Replying  to  yours  of  isth  inst.,  we  beg  to 
inform  you  that  we  have  no  personal  knowledge  as  to  the  stand- 
ing of  Messrs.  Sullivan  &  Co. ,  of  our  city ;  however,  we  have  made 
several  inquiries  respecting  them,  in  reliable  quarters,  and  have 
not,  we  regret  to  say,  learned  anything  in  their  favor. 
We  remain. 

Yours  truly, 

THE  FIFTH  NATIONAL  BANK  OF  X , 

Per  H.  Fletcher,  Cashier. 


BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE  6 1 

58.  To  a  Lawyer,  concerning  the  General  Standing  of  a 
Business  Firm  in  his  City. 

C ,  May  15,  19—. 

Hon.  Amos  Watson, 

Late  Judge  Superior  Court, 


DEAR  SIR:— 

Messrs.     Sullivan     &    Co.,   Dry    Goods 

Retail  Dealers,  of  your  city,  desire  to  open  an  account  with  us, 
and  have  given  your  name  as  a  reference.  We  are  desirous  to 
know  if  their  general  standing  in  the  community  warrants  us 
extending  them  a  line  of  credits.  They  claim  that,  having  acted 
as  their  attorney  and  counsel  for  several  years,  you  are  conversant 
with  their  resources  and  commercial  habits. 

Thanking  you  in  advance  for  whatever  information  you  will 
give  us,  strictly  in  confidence, 

We  remain, 

Yours  very  respectfully, 

SINGLETON  &  PRICK. 


59.  Asking  a  Business  House  to  give  Bearer  Limited  Credit, 
Guaranteed  by  Writer. 

C ,  July  14,  19—. 

Messrs.  Oryden  &  Son, 

Hardware  Jobbery,  T . 

GENTLEMEN: — 

Please  allow  the  bearer  of  this,  Mr.  Frank 
Hubbard,  who  is  a  friend  of  mine  and  a  thoroughly  reliable  man,  a 
credit  for  such  goods  as  he  may  select,  not  exceeding  two  thou- 
sand dollars  ($2,000),  and  if  he  does  not  pay  for  them,  I  will. 

Please  notify  me  of  the  amount  of  the  purchase  and  when  due, 
and  if  the  account  is_not  settled  promptly,  according  to  agreement, 
write  at  once  or  draw  for  the  amount. 

Yours  truly, 

WALTER  DUNLAP, 


62  BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE 

60.  Inquiring  as  to  Business  Prospects. 

H ,  August  15,  19—. 

Edward  Harrison,  Esq., 

DEAR  SIR:— 

As  I  informed  you,  a  year  ago,  I  have  been 
thinking  seriously  of  disposing  of  my  small  business  here  and 
locating  in  some  large  town  out  on  the  Pacific  Coast,  where  I  can 
grow  up  with  the  country  as  you  are  doing. 

Will  you  have  the  kindness  to  write  me,  at  your  convenience, 

full  information  in  regard  to  the  prospects  of  business,  rates  of 

rents,  cost  of  living,  and  any  other  details,  especially  in  regard  to 

the  Book  and  Stationery  trade? 

If  you  will  thus  kindly  give  me  the  facts  on  which  I  can  base 

my  calculations,  and  all  is  favorable,  I  shall  probably  visit  L 

this  fall,  and  eventually  become  your  neighbor. 

Yours  very  truly, 

PHILLIP  RONALDS. 


E.    ACCOUNTS  AND   PAYMENTS 

61.  To  a  Business  House  inclosing  a  Statement  of  Account. 

C ,  March  i,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Bright  Brothers, 

S ,  Mich. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

Inclosed  please  find  a  statement  of  your 
account  for  the  past  three  months,  which  we  believe  you  will  find 
correct. 

We  shall  feel  obliged  if  you  examine  the  same  at  your  earli- 
est convenience,  and  be  happy  to  receive  your  check  for  the 
amount  or  instructions  to  draw  on  you  in  the  ordinary  course. 
We  are,  gentlemen, 
Yours  truly, 

SAMPLE,  O'NEIL  &  Co. 


BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE  63 

62.  To  a  Business  Firm  asking  for  Settlement  of  Account. 

C ,  January  10,  19 — . 

Henry  Holden  &  Son, 

M . 

GENTLEMEN: — 

We  beg  to  call  your  attention  to  the  fact  that 
your  account  has  not  been  settled  this  month  according  to  prom- 
ise, and  further  request  that  you  will  favor  us  with  a  check  for 
the  same  in  the  course  of  this  week. 

Yours  obediently, 

THE  BLAKE  BROS.  Co., 
Per  H.  S.  Blake,  President. 


63.  To  a  Business  Firm  asking  Firmly  for  Settlement  of 
Overdue  Account. 

K ,  August  13,  19—. 

Arnold  Bass  &  Co., 
/P 

GENTLEMEN: — 

Allow  me  to  remind  you  that  your  account  has 
been  standing  for  several  months  unsettled. 

I  should  not  even  now  have  called  your  attention  to  the  matter, 
were  it  not  that,  in  a  few  days,  I  must  meet  a  large  bill,  and  shall 
rely  in  part  on  your  account  to  furnish  the  means. 

I  would,  therefore,  esteem  it  a  great  favor  if  you  would  remit 
either  the  whole,  or  at  least  the  greater  part,  of  the  amount  due, 
in  the  course  of  a  week  or  ten  days. 
Thanking  you  for  past  favors, 

I  remain, 

Yours  truly. 
HENRY  B.  WARD. 

64.  More  Pressing  Dunning  Letter. 

K ,  August  25,  19 — . 

Arnold  Bass  &  Co., 

T . 

GENTLEMEN: — 

As  you  failed  to  take  any  notice  of  my  letter  of 
the  isth  inst.,  relating  to  a  settlement  of  your  account,  now  long 
overdue,  I  shall  feel  obliged,  to  my  sincere  regret,  to  have  the 


64  BUSINESS  INTERCOURSE 

claim  placed  into  the  hands  of  my  attorneys  for  collection,  unless 
I  hear  from  you  satisfactorily  before  the  end  of  the  present  month. 
Trusting  that  this  neglect  has  been  due  only  to  an  oversight  on 
your  part,  and  that  our  pleasant  intercourse  in  the  past  may  be 
soon  resumed, 

I  remain, 

Yours  truly, 

HENRY  B.  WARD. 


65.  To  a  Business  Firm,  inclosing  a  Remittance. 

T ,  March  10,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Sandford  &  Merton 
p 

GENTLEMEN: — 

The  goods  ordered  of  you  on  the  3d  inst.  have 
been  received,  and  are  entirely  satisfactory  in  both  quality  and 
price. 

Enclosed  please  find  Philadelphia  exchange  for  $731.15,  the 
full  amount  of  your  bill. 

Thanking  you  for  your  promptness  in  filling  our  order, 
We  remain, 

Yours  respectfully, 

DOHERTY  SONS  &  Co. 


66.  To  a  Business  Firm,  inclosing  Draft  for  Acceptance. 

S ,  June  24,  19—. 

Messrs.  Cassidy  &  Day, 

GENTLEMEN: — 

Inclosed  I  hand  you  draft  at  sixty  (60)  days' 
sight  for  acceptance  for  eight  hundred  and  fourteen  dollars  and 
twenty-eight  cents  ($814.28),  the  balance  due,  which  please  accept 
and  return  by  next  mail. 
Awaiting  further  favors, 

I  remain, 

Yours  truly, 

ARTHUR  PHILLIPSON. 


BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE  6$ 

67.  From  a  Business  Firm  to  a  Creditor,  asking  for  time. 

M ,  January  12,  19—. 

The  Blake  Bros.  Co., 

R . 

DEAR  SIRS: — 

May  we  ask  your  kind  indulgence  with  regard  to 
our  overdue  account?  Owing  to  unforseen  circumstances,  we 
find  it  is  not  in  our  power  to  settle  it  under  three  months  from 
this  date.  We  think  it  best  to  solicit  this  favor  frankly  rather  than 
to  allow  you  to  expect  a  payment  unfortunately  not  forthcoming. 
We  need  not  say  how  much  we  regret  this  delay,  which  is  never- 
theless unavoidable. 

We  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

-HENRY   HOLDEN  &   SONS. 


68.  From  a  Retail  House  to  a  Customer,  requesting  Payment. 

N ,  January  10,  19 — . 

Edward  Phillips,  Esq., 
City. 

DEAR  SIR:— 

Allow  us  to  call  attention  to  the  fact  that  your 
account  is  now  overdue.     Will  you   do  us  the  favor  to  remit  a 
check  for  same  at  your  earliest  convenience? 
Yours  obediently, 

SOLOMON,  HYMAN  &  Co. 


^   *v, 


F.    BUSINESS  NOTICES 


69.  From  a  Business  House,  giving  Notice  of  the  Dissolution 
of  a  Partnership. 

B >>  December  15,  19—. 

Phillips  &  Dunham, 

L . 

GENTLEMEN: — 

On  the  ist  of  January  next  the  partnership  for 
the   past   ten  years  existing  between  Edward  B.   Hanley  and 
Horace  O'Neil,  Grocers,  will  be  dissolved  by  mutual  consent. 
We  take  this  opportunity  to  thank  our  patrons  and  friends 


66  BUSINESS  INTERCOURSE 

for   the   liberal   support   extended   to  us    during   our  business 
career 

After  the  ist  of  January  the  business  will  be  carried  on  at  the 
old  stand,  Nos.  6  and  8  River  Street,  by  Horace  O'Neil  and  Julius 
Stern,  under  the  firm  name  of  O'Neil  &  Stern.  We  trust  you  will 
favor  the  new  firm  with  your  business. 

We  renewed  thanks,  we  remain, 

Your  obedient  servants, 

HANLEY  &  O'NEIL. 


70.  Announcing  the  Death  of  a  Partner. 

R 1  May  10,  19— 

Messrs.  Deward  &  Sons 

N . 

GENTLEMEN:— 

It  is  with  deep  regret  that  we  have  to  inform 
you  of  the  recent  death  of  our  senior  partner,  Mr.  T.  Kurd,  which 
occurred  on  the  5th  inst. 

At  the  same  time,  we  have  the  satisfaction  of  stating  that  this 
sad  event  will  in  no  way  interfere  with  the  future  conduct  of  our 
business,  as  arrangements  are  being  made  to  supply  the  place  of 
our  deceased  partner. ' 

For  the  present,  no  alteration  will  be  made  in  the  name  of  the 
firm. 

The  surviving  partner,  Mr.  Augustus  Densmore,  will  conduct  the 
affairs  as  usual,  and  we  confidently  hope  that,  from  the  experience 
you  have  had  of  our  uniform  punctuality  and  regularity,  you  will 
continue  to  favor  us  with  your  orders,  resting  assured  that  the 
same  unremitting  attention  as  formerly  will  be  paid  to  the  interests 
of  our  customers. 

We  remain,  Gentlemen, 

Yours  respectfully, 

KURD,  DENSMORE  &  Co. 


BUSINESS   INTERCOURSE  67 

71.  From  a  Business  House  giving  Notice  of  a  Change  in  the 
Firm  Name. 

P ,  June  5,  19—. 

Messrs.  Phillips  &  Stern, 

GENTLEMEN:— 

We  beg  to  inform  you  of  an  alteration  to 
take  place  in  the  name  and  copartnership  of  this  firm,  on  July  ist. 
Our  Mr.  Robert  Stephenson  will  withdraw,  and  his  son,  Mr. 
Anthony  Todd  Stephenson,  will  be  admitted  as  a  full  partner, 
with  his  father's  share  in  the  capital  and  profits  of  the  firm. 
The  style  of  the  new  concern  will  be  Stephenson  &  Nephew. 

We  request  a  continuance  of  your  favor,  and  assure  you  that 
there  will  be  no  relaxation  of  our  efforts  to  conduct  business  affairs 
in  the  usual  conservative  manner. 

Truly  yours, 

STEPHENSON  BROS. 


72.  From  a  Business  House  Recommending  a  Successor  in 
Business. 

B ,  December  20,  19 — . 

To  the  Public:— 

It  is  with  some  feeling  of  regret  that  we  announce  our 
retirement  from  business  on  the  beginning  of  the  new  year. 

Stock  and  premises  will  then  be  transferred  to  Messrs.  Fair- 
fax Brothers,  whom  we  cheerfully  present  to  your  notice,  and  feel 
it  our  duty  to  recommend  them  for  a  continuance  of  that  liberal 
confidence  and  patronage  which  you  have  bestowed  on  us  during 
the  past  twenty  years. 

Both  these  young  gentlemen  have  been  clerks  in  this  establish- 
ment for  a  long  time,  and  are  in  every  way  efficient  and  capa- 
ble to  continue  the  business. 

We  are, 

Respectfully, 

JOHNSON  &  Fox. 


68 


BUSINESS    INTERCOURSE 


73.  Notice  of  Assignment. 

C ,  Dec.  20,  19—. 

To  Our  Creditors. 

GENTLEMEN  — 

In  consequence  of  the  failure  of  the  Tenth  National 
Bank,  of  our  city,  we  regret  to  find  ourselves  unable  to  continue 
business  without  resorting  to  costly  expedients,  which,  in  the 
interest  of  our  creditors,  we  are  anxious  to  avoid.  To  duly 
protect  all  concerned,  we  have  decided  to  make  an  assignment 
of  all  our  property,  and  this  decision  has  already  met  with 
the  approval  of  the  principal  local  creditors.  We  have  had  the 
good  fortune,  in  this  trouble  to  secure  the  services,  as  assignee, 
of  Mr.  Walter  Mead,  a  wealthy  and  well-known  retired  merchant 
of  this  city,  who  will  without  delay  prepare  a  statement  of  our 
affairs,  and  submit  it  to  you  at  an  early  date. 

With  renewed  regrets  for  the  unforeseen  circumstances  that 
have  brought  about  this  painful  state  of  affairs,  and  earnestly 
counting  on  considerate  treatment  on  your  part, 
We  remain, 

Yours  sincerely, 

DOMINICK  &  BRONSON. 


Correct  Position  of  Body. 


CHAPTER    II 

SEMI-PRIVATE  BUSINESS 

We   include    under  this   head  the  correspondence  between 
People  in  business  and  private  parties,  or  vice  versa. 

74.  From  a  Gentleman  of  Leisure  to  his  Bank. 

B ,  August  10,  19 — . 

Cashier  Pilgrim  Loan  &  Trust  Co., 

DEAR  SIR:— 

Answering  your  favor  of  the  4th  inst.,  I  was 
not  aware  I  had  overdrawn  my  account,  as  I  had  ordered  my 
brokers,  Samuels  &  Loeb,  to  deposit  to  my  credit  $375  on  the 
first  of  the  month ;  but  I  will  at  once  attend  to  the  matter,  and 
request  them  by  same  mail  to  pay  said  amount  to  my  account 
Jn  your  bank  to-morrow,  Thursday,  before  close  of  business. 
Regretting  the  incident,  and  thanking  you  for  honoring  my  last 

I  remain, 

Yours  sincerely, 

STEPHEN  DUNDAS. 


75.  From  a  Lady  to  her  Bank. 

C ,  May  10,  19 — . 

Cashier  Tenth  National  Bank, 

DEAR  SIR: — 

Kindly  place  the  enclosed  check  of  $2,500  on 

the  National  City  Bank,   N ,   to  my  account;   I  shall  be 

obliged  if  you  will  forward  me  a  check  book  of  fifty  checks. 

Very  truly  yours, 

MARIA  TILDEN. 
69 


70  SEMI-PRIVATE   BUSINESS 

76.  From  a  Tenant  to  his  Landlord,  concerning  Repairs. 

C ,  March  22,  19 — . 

Albert  Davenport,  Esq. 
City. 

DEAR  SIR:— 

Will  you  kindly  send  some  one  at  once   to 
examine  the  roof  of  this  house,  as  the  rain  comes  through  in  sev- 
eral places.     I  am  sorry  to  say  the  pipes  are  also  out  of  order,  and 
require  immediate  attention  to  prevent  further  mischief. 
I  remain, 

Yours  truly, 

HENRY  FAIRFAX. 

77.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

C ,  March  24,  19—. 

Henry  Fairfax,  Esq., 
City. 

DEAR  SIR:— 

Your  favor  of  the  22d  inst.  duly  received;  I 
have  instructed  my  agent,  Mr.  Wilson,  to  have  the  necessary 
repairs  done  without  delay ;  but,  as  regards  papering  and  painting 
the  rooms  you  mentioned  in  a  preceding  letter,  I  think  it  must  be 
deferred  until  next  year,  when  I  will  see  what  can  be  done.  I 
must  remind  you  that  you  were  aware  of  the  condition  of  the 
house  when  you  took  it,  and  that  I  made  no  promise  respecting 
redecorations,  as  the  rent  paid  by  you  does  not  warrant  my  incur- 
ring the  outlay. 

I  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

ALBERT  DAVENPORT. 


78.  From  a  Tenant  to  his  Landlord,  Complaining  of  Neglect. 

N ,  March  4,  19 — . 

Peter  Stirling,  Esq., 
City. 

DEAR  SIR:— 

About  three  weeks  ago,  I  called  your  attention 
to  the  state  of  the  plumbing  in  this  house,  but  no  notice  has  been 
taken  of  my  letter.  Unless  you  send  some  one  at  once  to  attend 


SEMI-PRIVATE    BUSINESS  71 

to  this  matter,  I  shall  have  no  alternative  but  to  apply  to  the' 
Health  Department,  and  whatever  they  consider  necessary  I  shall 
have  done  and  charged  to  you. 

Hoping  that  you  will  not  force  me  to  resort  to  such  extreme 
measures, 

I  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

ARTHUR  APPLETON. 


79.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

N ,  March  5,  19 — . 

Arthur  Appleton,  Esq., 
City. 

DEAR  SIR:— 

I  sincerely  regret  to  hear  that  the  repairs  you 
require  have  not  as  yet  been  attended  to.  Owing  to  the  late 
severe  frost,  it  is  almost  impossible  to  find  enough  plumbers]  for 
the  amount  of  work  required  at  the  present  moment ;  however,  I 
have  requested  my  architect  to  send  some  one  round  to-morrow  to 
ascertain  the  extent  of  the  damage,  and  to  start  work  at  once, 
Hoping  this  will  prove  satisfactory, 
I  remain, 

Yours  respectfully, 

PETER  STIRLING. 


80.  From  a  Lady  to  a  Firm  of  Real  Estate  Agents,  Making  an 
Offer  for  a  Furnished  House. 

C ,  April  5,  19—. 

Messrs.  Lord  &  Williams, 
City. 

DEAR  SIRS:— 

I  have  been  over  the  house  on  P Avenue 

you  sent  me  a  visiting  permit  for,  and  should  be  glad  to  know  if 
you  think  the  owner  would  be  disposed  to  accept  $75  per  month 
on  consideration  of  my  being  willing  to  take  the  house  for  six 
months,  providing  the  enclosed  list  of  articles  which  I  consider 
necessary  are  supplied. 

Yours  faithfully, 

HENRIETTA  WOOD. 


72  SEMI-PRIVATE    BUSINESS 

81.   From  a  Lady  to  a  Firm  of  Real  Estate  Agents,  Asking 
Them  to  put  a  House  on  Their  Lists. 

C ,  May  12,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Smith  &  Brown, 
City. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

I  wish  you  would  put  my  house  on  your  books, 
as  I  desire  to  let  it  immediately,  if  possible  for  two  or  three  years. 
I  enclose  particulars  of  number  of  rooms,  rent  required,  etc.  Hop- 
ing to  hear  from  you  soon, 

I  remain, 

Yours  truly, 

EVELYN  INNES. 


82.  From  a  Lady  to  a  Real  Estate  Agent  Asking  for  a  List  of 
Houses  for  Rent. 

N ,  August  14,  19 — . 

DEAR  SIR:— 

Have  you  any  small  residences  on  your  books  in  the 
neighborhood  of  Central  Park,  at  from  $125  to  $150  per  month? 
If  so,  will  you  send  me  particulars  concerning  them,  with  per- 
mits to  visit?  I  should  like  to  take  a  home  for  one  year  in  that 
neighborhood  if  I  can  find  one  to  suit  me. 

Yours  truly, 

HENRIETTA  MOORE. 


83.  To  a  Real  Estate  Firm  Asking  Information  About  a  Farm. 

C ,  July  20,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Washburne  &  Smedley, 

GENTLEMEN  : — 

I  am  informed  that  you  have  charge  of  large 
tracts  of  farming  land  in  your  State.  My  friend,  Mr.  George 
Porter,  of  this  city,  who  iskalso,  I  understand,  a  friend  of  yours, 
suggests  that  you  might  be  able  to  find  me  just  the  thing  I  want. 
After  fourteen  years  of  exhausting  professional  work  in  this  place, 
I  find  myself  thoroughly  run  down,  and  my  medical  adviser  insists 
that  the  only  chance  for  me  is  to  break  loose  entirely  from  my 
present  engagements,  and  either  take  an  extensive  tour  of  travel, 


SEMI-PRIVATE    BUSINESS  73 

or  enter  on  some  light  and  pleasant  occupation  that  would  serve  to 
interest  me  without  involving  any  anxious  care.  In  short,  it  is 
suggested  that  two  years  on  a  farm  would  secure  me  a  new  lease 
of  life.  I  think  I  have  presented  my  case  pretty  clearly.  Coun- 
try life,  in  a  locality  where  I  need  not  be  far  from  home  and 
friends,  attracts  me  more  than  does  the  traveling. 

Do  you  know  of  a  small  farm  that  could  be  worked  with  com- 
parative ease  and  which  I  could  rent  or  purchase?  If  so,  I  should 
be  glad  to  hear  from  you  at  your  earliest  convenience. 

Very  truly  yours, 

GEORGE  F.  MONSELL. 


84.  From  a  Gentleman  to  House  Decorators,  Asking  for  an 
Estimate. 

P ,  April  15,  19 — . 

Messrs.  Silverton  &  Co., 
City. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

I  want  to  have  the  outside  of  my  house  painted, 
and  I  shall  be  obliged  if  you  will  send  a  responsible  person  to 
call  on  me  regarding  this  matter,  and  to  give  an  estimate  of  the 
cost.  I  shall  also  be  glad  to  know  if  you  can  undertake  to  com- 
plete the  work  in  the  course  of  next  week.  A  prompt  answer  will 
be  appreciated, 

Yours  truly, 

EDWARD  SIMPSON. 


85    From  a  Gentleman  to  a  Firm  of  House  Decorators,  Asking 
for  Time  to  Settle  His  Account. 

N ,  February  3,  10 — . 

Messrs.  Gold,  Ruby  &  Co., 
City. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

I  am  really  sorry  that  I  am  unable  to  settle  the 
whole  of  your  bill  to-day;  but  I  send  you  a  check  for  $25  on 
account  and  will  endeavor  to  let  you  have  the  balance,  $73.31, 
on  the  2ist  of  next  month. 

Yours  truly, 

STEPHEN  CALDWELL. 


74  SEMI-PRIVATE   BUSINESS 

86.  From  a  Gentleman  to  a  Firm  of  Publishers,  Enclosing  Sub- 
scription. 

M— — — ,  May  10,  19 — . 
Messrs.  Harper  &  Brothers, 
New  York. 

GENTLEMEN: — 

Enclosed  you  will  find  a  money  order  for  four 
dollars  ($4),  for  which  please  send  to  my  address  a  copy  of  "Har- 
pers Magazine"  for  one  year,  beginning  with  the  first  number  of 
the  present  volume. 

Yours  respectfully, 

DAVID  STRONG. 


87.  To  the  Baggage  Master  of  a  R.  R.  Depot,  Concerning 
Lost  Baggage. 

D ,  May  10,  19 — . 

Baggage  Master  C.  B.  &  Q.  R.  R.  Co. 
Union  Depot,  City. 
DEAR  SIR:— 

On  arriving  here  from  N this  evening 

over  your  line,  by  the  7 :  20  train,  I  gave  my  check  to  the  Local 
Express  Co.  's  agent,  and  he  has  just  reported  that  a  large  leather 

portmanteau  is  missing.     I  left  C on   Wednesday,  by  the 

6:  30  train,  and  saw  my  baggage  checked  for  D ,  over  your 

road.     I  hold  your  check  No.  27,131.     Kindly  trace  the  missing 
article  by  telegraph,  and  have  it  forwarded  [without  delay,  as  I 
need  it  badly.     It  bears  my  initial   letters,  C.  S.,  and  has  also  a 
parchment  label  marked  with  my  name. 
I  am,  Sir, 

Yours  faithfully, 

CHARLES  B.  SMITH. 


88.  From  a  Lady  to  a  Dressmaker,  Complaining  of  Extrava- 
gant Charges. 

B ,  January  25,  19 — . 

Mrs.  Dudley  has  received  Miss  French's  account,  and  is  sorry 
to  find  that  it  is  considerably  higher  than  she  had  expected.  She 
will  call  and  see  Miss  French  early  next  week  respecting  two  or 
three  items  which  require  explanation. 


SEMI-PRIVATE    BUSINESS  75 

89.  From  a  Lady  to  a  Dressmaker  Postponing  the  Settlement 
of  an  Account. 

N ,  January  8,  19 — . 

Mrs.  Selborn  is  sorry  she  cannot  send  Miss  Jackson  a  check 
by  return  mail  as  requested,  but  hopes  to  be  able  to  do  so  in  the 
course  of  the  next  ten  days.  She  had  not  forgotten  Miss  Jackson's 
account,  and  is  only  sorry  that  she  has  been  obliged  to  keep  her 
waiting  such  a  long  time  for  full  settlement. 


90.  From  a  Gentleman  to  His  Tailor. 

Mr.  Shears,  D ,  December  18,  19 — . 

City. 

DEAR  SIR:— 

The  Prince  Albert  coat  you  sent  me  yester- 
day is  a  misfit  in  every  way.  It  is  too  large  across  the  shoulders, 
tight  under  the  arms,  narrow  in  the  chest ;  the  sleeves  also  are  too 
short,  and  the  collar  is  full  of  wrinkles.  Considering  that  I  was 
measured  for  it,  and  that  it  was  subsequently  tried  on,  there  is  no 
excuse  for  its  fitting  so  badly.  I  have  this  morning  returned  it  to 
you,  and  if  the  alterations  are  not  made  to  my  satisfaction,  I 
shall  of  course  decline  to  keep  the  garment 

Yours  faithfully, 

ALFRED  SANDRINGHAM. 


91.  Applying  for  a  Situation  as  Teacher. 

retary  School  Board,  D ,  July  25,  19 — . 

D . 

DEAR  SIR:— 

Understanding  that  a  vacancy  in  the  faculty  of 
your  school  has  occurred,  I  beg  leave  to  offer  myself  as  a  candi- 
date for  the  position. 
I  am  20  years  old,  a  widower  with  one  child.     Am  a  graduate 

of  O State  Normal  School,  and  have  taught  successfully  for 

five  years.     Please  find  enclosed  a  copy  of  my  certificate  from 

the  County  Superintendent  of . 

Would  be  willing  to  teach  for  the  first  year  at  a  salary  of  $1,000. 
If  you  can  give  me  any  encouragement,  I  shall  be  pleased  to 
make  personal  application. 

Yours  respectfully, 

HAROLD  STRONG. 


76  SEMI-PRIVATE    BUSINESS 

92.  Recommending  a  Teacher. 

D ,  July  24,  19—. 

To  Whom  It  May  Concern  :— 

Having  learned  that  Mr.  Harold  Strong  is  about  to  leave 

this  State  to  engage  in  the  work  of  teaching  in State,  1  am 

pleased  to  say,  that  I  have  known  him  for  over  five  years,  that  his 
character  is  above  reproach,  and  that  he  has  shown  himself  pos- 
sessed of  scholarship,  tact,  enthusiasm,  ability  to  keep  discipline ; 
in  short,  of  all  the  highest  qualities  of  the  successful  teacher. 

I,  therefore,  earnestly  recommend  him  to  any  who  desire  to 
employ  a  competent  instructor,  feeling  confident  that  he  will 
satisfy  all  reasonable  expectations. 

MARKHAM  STONE. 
County  Supt.  of  Schools. 


93.  From  a  Lady  to  Her  Lawyer  Concerning  a  Claim 
Against  Her. 

B ,  July  6,  19 — . 

Henry  T.  Turner,  Esq. 

DEAR  SIR:— 

This  morning,  I  received  the  enclosed  letter  from 
Messrs.  Barnes  &  Butler,  Mr.  White's  lawyers,  asking  for  com- 
pensation for  damage  [done  to  his  bicycle  by  its  coming  into 
collision  with  my  automobile.  I  will  send  my  driver  to  you  to- 
morrow morning  that  he  may  explain  the  nature  of  the  accident, 
and  I  think  you  will  see  that  no  blame  attaches  to  him.  Will 
you  have  the  goodness,  after  you  have  seen  him,  to  write  to 
Messrs.  Barnes  &  Butler  to  this  effect? 
Believe  me, 

Yours  very  truly, 

MAY  WILKINSON. 


SEMI-PRIVATE    BUSINESS 


77 


94-  From  a  Lady  to  a   Lawyer  Concerning  a  Bill  of  Costs. 

C ,  January  20,  10 — . 

Robert  Hazard,  Esq., 
Counselor-at-Law, 
City. 

DEAR  SIR:— 

Please  find  enclosed  my  check  for  $126.25,  in 
full  discharge  of  all  claims  against  me  up  to  date,  according  to 
your  bill,  which  I  enclose  and  desire  you  to  return  to  me 
receipted. 

With  regard  to  incurring  further  costs  of  any  kind,  I  beg  to  say 
that  I  do  not  intend  doing  so;  neither  do  I  wish  to  take  up  your 
valuable  time  in  correspondence  at  my  expense. 
I  remain, 

Yours  respectfully, 

EVELYN  STORY. 


front  Position, 

SidcYteiv. 


Correct  Position  of  Body. 


CHAPTER   III 

PRIVATE   BUSINESS 

We  include  under  this  head,  letters  on  matters  of  business  between 
parties  that  do  not  belong  to  the  world  of  affairs. 

95.  Asking  a  Friend  to  Make  a  Purchase  for  the  Writer. 

T ,  April  21,  19—. 

My  Dear  Miss  Clancy : — 

Will  it  impose  too  much  upon  your  kindness  to  ask  you  to 
attend  to  a  little  business  for  me? 

I  want  to  buy  a  nice  wrap,  and  I  have  no  idea  what  people  are 
wearing  just  now.  I  seldom  go  to  town,  as  you  know,  and  there 
are  no  styles  to  study  in  these  parts ;  indeed,  we  are  very  primitive 
as  regards  dress,  and  I  do  not  like  to  trust  entirely  to  fashion 
plates,  for  fear  of  ordering  something  exaggerated. 

Your  taste  is  excellent,  and  you  know  so  exactly  what  is  most 
suitable  to  my  figure  and  height,  that  I  should  feel  more  than 
satisfied  if  you  would  choose  a  coat  for  me  at  about  $45,  for  which 
I  enclose  a  check. 

Have  you  been  buying  anything  pretty  this  spring?  I  know 
you  are  a  great  authority  on  dress,  and  I  suppose  you  brought 
home  some  exquisite  gowns  from  Paris.  Are  the  hats  as  large  as 
ever?  and  what  will  be  the  favorite  color  this  season? 

We  are  as  usual  very  quiet  down  here ;  but  I  am  going  to  pay  a 
few  visits  in  the  northern  part  of  the  State,  next  month. 

Believe  me,  dear  Miss  Clancy,  with  many  thanks  in  advance, 

Affectionately  yours, 
P.  S. — I  enclose  measurements.  EVELYN  T.  INNES. 


96.  From  a  Lady  Asking  a  Friend  to  Visit  Furnished  Houses 

for  Rent. 

P ,  January  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Durant: — 

We  are  thinking  of  coming  to  visit  the  city  for  the  rest  of 
the  winter,  if  we  can  find  a  small  furnished  house  to  suit  us. 

Messrs.  Roberts  &  Higgins,  Real  Estate  Agents,  of B'way, 

have  sent  me  several  particulars  of  houses,  which  they  highly 
recommend. 

78 


PRIVATE    BUSINESS  79 

Would  you  be  so  very  kind  as  to  go  over  and  examine  for 
me  two  houses  for  which  I  have  received  visiting  permits 
(enclosed),  and  tell  me  your  opinion  of  them;  whether  they  are 
fairly  well  furnished,  and  thoroughly  clean — I  mean  as  regards 
bedding,  etc. 

They  ask  a  very  moderate  rent — $30  per  week — so  that  I  do  not 
expect  too  much  in  the  way  of  furniture  and  carpets,  and  I  shall 
be  satisfied  if  you  could  give  a  satisfactory  report  as  to  the  general 
condition  of  things  in  either  of  these  houses. 

It  would  be  a  real  favor  if  you  would  do  this  for  me,. as  I  am 
anxious  to  avoid  the  journey  to  town  which  personal  attention  to 
this  matter  would  entail. 

Thanking  you  warmly  in  advance,  and  hoping  that  we  shall  see 
a  great  deal  of  each  other  next  winter, 

Believe  me,  as  ever, 

Very  truly  yours, 

HARRIET  BILLINGS. 


97.  From  a  Lady  to  a  Friend,  Asking  Her  to  Engage 
Rooms  at  the  Sea-shore. 

C ,  June  15,  19—. 

Dear  Mrs,  Johnson:— 

We  have  almost  decided  to  spend  two  months  at  Long 
Branch,  and  I  should  much  prefer  taking  furnished  apartments  to 
going  to  a  hotel.  I  thought  perhaps  you  might  be  able  to  recom- 
mend us  some  rooms  where  we  should  be  comfortable.  If  not, 
would  you  mind  the  trouble  of  making  a  few  inquiries? 

We  should  like  to  face  the  sea  if  possible,  and  require  a  sitting- 
room  and  three  bed-rooms,  with  private  bath.  I  suppose  the  rent 
would  be  about  $25  per  week. 

Should  you  see  any  rooms  likely  to  suit,  would  you  engage  them 
for  us  from  the  ist  of  July  for  eight  weeks  certain?  I  fear  the 
place  will  be  very  full,  and  that  without  your  help  we  should  have 
no  little  difficulty  on  our  arrival  in  securing  desirable  accommoda- 
tion. 

I  hope  we  shall  have  fine  weather  during  our  stay  at  the  sea- 
shore, and  see  a  great  deal  of  you  all. 

With  our  united  kind  regards,  believe  me, 

Very  sincerely  your  friend, 

ELLEN  BROOKES. 


80  PRIVATE    BUSINESS 

98.  From   a   Lady  to  a    Lawyer    Requesting    His  Immediate 
Attendance  upon  Her  Father. 

B ,  February  14,  19 — . 

Henry  T.  Turner,  Esq. 
DEAR  SIR:— 

My  father  requests  me  to  ask  you  to  call  upon  him 
this  afternoon,  if  convenient,  on  urgent  business;  he  seems  very 
anxious,  and  begged  me  to  lose  no  time  in  sending  the  message. 
%  Faithfully  yours, 

MAY  WILKINSON. 


99.  From  a  Lady  to  a  Medical  Man,  Requesting  His  Imme- 
diate Attendance. 

,G ,  August  10,  19 — k 

Dear  Dr.  Stanley:— 

My  little  girl  is  suffering  from  a  severe  sore  throat.  I  shall 
be  glad  if  you  will  call  and  see  her  this  forenoon.  I  feel  very  anx- 
ious about  her,  and  am  afraid  I  ought  to  have  sent  for  you  yes- 
terday. 

Very  truly  yours, 

EVELYN  G.  DINSMORE. 


100.  From  a  Lady  to  a  Medical  Man,  Asking  for  His  Account. 

G ,  October  3,  19 — . 

Mrs.   Dinsmore   presents   her   compliments    to    Dr.    Stanley, 
and  wishes  to  know  the  amount  she  is  indebted  to  him  for  his 

attendance  on  her  daughter,  as  she  is  going  to  leave  G , 

in  a  few  days. 

loz.  To  a   Gentleman   Concerning  a   Note   the  Writer   has 
Indorsed  for  Him. 

O ,  January  9,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Robinson : — 

I  was  persuaded  to  indorse  a  note  for  you  on  the  clear 
understanding  that  the  money  would  be  forthcoming  at  the  time 
agreed  upon,  and  that  I  should  hear  nothing  more  regarding  it.  1 
yesterday  received  notice  from  a  Mr.  Wilson,  whom  I  do  not 


PRIVATE    BUSINESS  8l 

know,  that  the  note  has  been  presented  at  your  bank,  but  pay- 
ment refused,  and  I  have,  of  course,  been  compelled  to  pay  it  at 
once,  at  great  inconvenience  to  myself.  You  will  have  the  good- 
ness to  attend  to  this  matter  immediately,  and,  allow  me  to  add, 
you  had  no  right  to  deceive  me  in  this  way. 

Yours  truly, 

MARTIN  LLOYD. 


102.  Requesting  a  Loan  from  a  Friend. 

N ,  December  10,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Williams:— 

May  I  ask  a  favor  of  you,  with  the  hope  that  you  will  be 
able  to  grant  it?  I  have  a  most  pressing  needj  for  8300.  Do  you 
think  you  could  oblige  me  with  that  sum  for  a  couple  of  months, 
when  I  shall  refund  the  amount  promptly?  I  feel  the  greatest 
reluctance  in  making  this  request,  and  only  the  extreme  urgency 
of  the  case  induces  me  to  do  so,  although  I  feel  that,  if  it  is  in  your 
power  to  serve  me,  you  certainly  will  not  hesitate  to  do  so. 
Believe  me,  dear  Williams, 

Ever  yours, 

HARRY  DENISON. 


103.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

N ,  December  12,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Denison : — 

I  hasten  to  answer  your  note  of  Saturday,  which  reached 
my  desk  this  a.m.  Nothing  would  have  done  me  greater  pleasure 
than  to  come  to  your  assistance  to  the  full  amount  requested.  But 
I  am  pretty  hard  up  myself,  especially  toward  the  end  of  the  year. 
Still,  I  don't  feel  like  leaving  an  old  friend  in  a  hole,  and  I  beg 
you  to  accept  the  loan  of  the  $100  enclosed,  to  be  returned  at  your 
convenience. 

I  trust  that  all  are  well  at  home.     Hoping  to  see  you  soon,  well 
and  hearty, 

I  remain, 

Your  sincere  friend, 

PHILLIP  WILLIAMS. 


82  PRIVATE    BUSINESS 

104.  Asking  a  Relative  for  a  Temporary  Loan. 

P  -  ,  December  10,  19  —  . 
My  Dear  Bess  :— 

I  am  in  great  financial  trouble  at  the  present  moment, 
being  unexpectedly  called  upon  to  pay  a  heavy  bill  of  costs  to  my 
lawyers,  which  they  demand  in  a  rather  threatening  manner.  You 
know  that  I  recently  lost  an  important  suit  which  I  found  among 
the  assets  (?)  of  my  poor  Harry.  The  bill  amounts  to  $357,  and 
they  ask  for  this  amount  within  ten  days.  I  am  unable  to  meet 
this  heavy  sum  just  now,  and  I  write  to  ask  if  you  would  be  so 
very  kind  as  to  lend  me  $125. 

You  may  depend  upon  my  repaying  you  as  soon  as  my  late  hus- 
band's affairs  are  straightened  out;  although,  I  must  say,  the 
resources  left  me,  after  all  just  debts  shall  have  been  settled,  will 
be  possibly  inadequate  to  meet  my  many  expenses,  which  renders 
this,  may  I  say  extortionate,  demand  the  harder  to  submit  to;  but 
in  the  hands  of  lawyers  one  feels  helpless  and  powerless.  At  least 
this  is  my  experience  of  the  profession. 

I  do  trust  you  may  be  able  to  grant  my  request.     I  shall  be  sin- 
cerely grateful  to  you  for  any  assistance  you  can  give  me. 
Believe  me, 

Your  affectionate  cousin, 

DWIGHT. 


105.  From  a  Lady  to  Another  Concerning  a  Furnished  Country 

House. 

N  -  ,  August  15,  19  —  . 

Mrs.  Edwards  presents  her  compliments  to  Mrs.'  Robbins; 
she  understands  from  her  friend  Mrs.  Ludlow,  that  Briar  Villa  is 
to  be  let  furnished  for  next  year's  season  —  from  May  to  Novem- 
ber —  ,  and  she  thinks  from  the  description  it  would  be  very  likely 
to  suit  her;  perhaps  Mrs.  Robbins  will  let  Mrs.  Edwards  know 
when  it  will  be  convenient  for  her  to  see  it. 


106.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

B ,  August  6,  19 — . 

Mrs.  Robbins  presents  her  compliments  to  Mrs.  Edwards,  and 
begs  to  thank  her  for  her  note  respecting  her  house,  but  she  has 
already  received  an  offer  for  it,  which  she  is  disposed  to  accept. 
However,  should  the  matter  fall  through,  she  will  let  Mrs. 
Edwards  know  at  tmce. 


PRIVATE    BUSINESS  83 

107.  From  a  Young  Lady  Desirous  of  Securing  Farm-House 

Board. 

• 

S ,  May  27,  19 — . 

Mrs.  Silas  Marner, 

The  Uplands  Farm,  B Lake,  Minn. 

DEAR  MADAM: — 

I  have  had  charge  for  four  years  of  the  milli- 
nery department  in  one  of  the  largest  dry  goods  establishments  in 
this  city.  During  that  period  it  has  never  seemed  convenient  for 
me  to  take  a  vacation.  The  time  has  at  last  come  when  I  must 
seek  full  relaxation;  although  not  an  invalid,  I  am  dreadfully 
run  down.  The  doctor  prescribes  immediate  and  thorough  rest. 
He  says  I  do  not  require  medicine,  but  a  month  in  a  quiet  home, 
where  I  shall  have  pure  air,  plain  food  and  no  worry.  Miss 
Etheridge,  who  is  a  friend  of  mine,  and  was  a  neighbor  of  yours 

until  she  came  to  S ,  says  the  Uplands  Farm  is  the  very 

place  for  me,  and  that  you  are  just  the  kindly  friend  I  need  to 
make  a  month  of  peace  and  quiet  a  season  of  perfect  delight.  I 
write,  therefore,  to  ask  if  you  could  find  room  for  me  in  your  hos- 
pitable home,  and  on  what  terms.  I  promise  to  give  you  little 
trouble,  for  I  am  not  an  invalid,  nor  am  I  given  to  "fine  city 
ways,"  or  full  of  foolish  fancies.  I  want  perfect  freedom  from 
care  and  worry ;  to  sleep,  to  read,  to  ramble  in  the  woods  and 
meadows ;  anything  to  give  my  poor,  tired  mind  and  body  four 
weeks  of  unbroken  rest.  Miss  Etheridge  will  write  by  this  mail, 
and  I  shall  be  glad  to  hear  from  you  at  your  earliest  convenience, 
as  I  should  like  to  begin  my  vacation  about  June  17. 
I  am,  dear  madam, 

Yours  truly, 

SELMA  WHITE. 


108.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

The  Uplands  Farm, 

B Lake,  Minn,  May  29,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Miss  White:— 

I  was  a  little  surprised  to  find  two  letters  awaiting  me  at 
the  post  office  this  morning.  I  am  afraid  our  mutual  friend,  Miss 
Etheridge,  has  been  drawing  a  little  upon  hendmagination. 


84  PRIVATE    BUSINESS 

We  are  a  very  plain  sort  of  people  at^the  Uplands  Farm,  as  she 
knows  right  well.     Still,  if  simple  living,  fresh  air,  and  perfect 

rest  is  what  you  require,  I  think  we  can  accommodate  you.    B 

Lake  is  within  walking  distance,  and  the  whole  neighborhood  is 

very  beautiful.      If   $ for   the    month's   board   meets  your 

views,  I  think  I  could  undertake  to  entertain  you,  with  the  hope 
of  providing  what  you  desire. 

Pray  give  my  kind  regards  to  Miss  Etheridge. 

Yours  very  truly, 

SUSAN  MARNER. 


109.  From  a  Lady  Desirous  of  Placing  a  Sick  Child  at  a  Farm 

House. 

D ,  May  17,  19 — . 

Mrs.  Matthew  Jones, 

The  Hollands  Farm,  W . 

DEAR  MADAM: — 

My  little  girl,  Mary,  who  is  just  n  years  old, 
has  been  growing  much  too  fast  for  her  health.  The  doctor  says 
there  is  nothing  at  all  the  matter  with  her,  and  that  she  has  a 
splendid  constitution,  but  thinks  a  little  special  attention  just 
now  would  be  of  great  advantage  to  her  through  life,  and  he, 
therefore,  suggests  that  she  spend  the  coming  summer  at  a  farm 
house,  where  she  would  have  the  benefit  of  a  simple  fare  and  of 
living  almost  entirely  in  the  open  air. 

Mary  is  not  an  invalid,  nor  even  in  delicate  health.     If  you 
could  make  it  convenient  to  board  her  for  the  summer,  I  should 

esteem  it  a  great  favor.     You  are  not  very  far  from  D ,  so 

Mary  could  occasionally  visit  her  home  and  some  of  us  could  come 
out  and  visit  her;  in  that  way  she  would  not  probably  be  troubled 
with  homesickness.  She  is  a  good,  obedient  child,  and  would  give 
you  little  trouble.  I  shall  be  glad  to  hear  from  you  at  your 
earliest  convenience. 

I  remain,  dear  madam, 

Yours  truly, 

AGNES  WILLIAMS. 


PRIVATE    BUSINESS  &$ 

1 10.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

The  Hollands  Farm, 

W ,  May  20,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Williams:— 

Your  letter  of  the  i7th  to  hand.  I  think  I  could  make  room 
for  your  daughter  during  the  summer  if,  as  your  letter  indicates, 
she  would  be  perfectly  content  with  plain  living  and  the  simple 
comforts  of  a  farmhouse.  I  find  my  second  daughter,  Sophia,  is 
already  acquainted  with  your  little  girl,  having  met  her  on  two  or 

three  occasions  at  D during  the  Christmas  holidays  of  last 

year.     This  would  make  it  pleasant  for  both  children. 

As  to  details,  since  you  are  not  more  than  two  or  three  hours' 
ride  from  us,  would  it  not  be  well  if  you  could  make  the  short 
journey?  Matters  could  be  settled  so  much  easier  by  an  interview 
than  by  letters. 

I  am, 

Yours  truly, 

ALICE  JONES. 


ill.  Prom  a  Lady  to  a  Teacher  of  Music. 

Mrs.  Rowland  would  be  obliged  if  Signer  Leonti  would  let  her 
know  the  terms  for  a  course  of  twelve  lessons  at  her  own  resi- 
dence ;  perhaps  Signer  Leonti  would  make  it  convenient  to  call 
upon  her  any  morning  during  this  week  before  i  o'clock,  when  he 
would  be  able  to  judge  of  the  progress  her  daughter  has  already 
made. 

C ,  May  7,  19—- 


112.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

Signer  Leonti  presents  his  compliments  to  ,Mrs.  Rowland,  and 
begs  to  say  that  his  terms  are  $5  per  lesson  of  forty-five  minutes, 
at  pupil's  home;  he  makes  no  reduction  for  a  course  of  lessons. 
He  will  have  the  honor  of  calling  on  Mrs.  Rowland  on  Thursday 
morning  at  u. 

C ,  May  8,  19 — . 


86  PRIVATE    BUSINESS 

113.  To  an  Artist  Concerning  a  Portrait. 

Mrs.  Donaldson  is  very  desirous  of  having  a  portrait  of  her  Tms- 
band  painted  by  Monsieur  Carolus.  Will  he  therefore  kindly 
appoint  the  most  convenient  hour  to  receive  her  at  hir  studio, 
when  the  price  of  the  portrait,  the  number  of  sittings  -o  be  given, 
and  other  details  can  be  discussed. 

N -,  March  17,  19 — . 


1x4.  From  a  Lady  Asking  Private  Reformation  about  a  School. 

N,  June  10,  19 — . 
Dear  Mrs.  Beamans: — 

Will  you  allow  me  to  ask  yon  a  few  questions  respecting  a 
school  kept  by  the  Misses  Primleyr  I  understand  your  little  girl 
is  one  of  their  pupils.  Are  you  thoroughly  satisfied  with  the  sys- 
tem of  education  followed  at  thit  school,  and  are  the  domestic 
arrangements  with  regard  to  comfort  and  living  all  that  you  could 
wish?  My  little  girl  is  rather  delicate,  and  requires  care.  Do  you 
think  she  would  be  happy  in  the  Misses  Primley's  charge,  and  is 
your  daughter  likely  to  remain  with  them  beyond  this  term?  I 
should  feel  grateful  for  any  confidential  particulars  you  could  give 
me  on  this  to  me  most  important  subject,  and  hope  you  will 
kindly  excuse  my  troubling  you  with  these  inquiries. 
Thanking'you  in  advance 
I  remain, 

Very  truly  yours, 

EDITH  CARRLYON. 


115.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

N ,  June  12,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Carrlyon: — 

You  ask  if  my  daughter  is  to  remain  at  S beyond  this 

term.  I  am  seriously  thinking  of  having  her  home  at  once,  as  she 
has  not  been  at  all  well  lately,  and  I  doubt  if  the  confinement  of 
school  hours  altogether  agrees  with  her.  I  can  hardly  express  an 
opinion  with  respect  to  the  progress  she  has  made  in  her  studies, 


PRIVATE    BUSINESS  87 

as  she  has  been  there  so  short  a  time.  I  believe  the  living  is 
fairly  good,  but,  as  you  know,  delicate'  children  require  especial 
care  and  attention.  The  M isses  Primley ' s  school  was  not  personally 
recommended  to  me  by  any  friend  of  mine ;  it  came  to  my  notice 
simply  through  an  advertisement.  I  shall  be  glad  to  hear  that 
these  few  lines  have  been  of  some  service  to  you. 
Believe  me,  as  ever, 

Very  truly  yours, 

CARLOTTA  BEAMANS. 


-vzszm, 

•6, 


PART  II 
FAMILY   CORRESPONDENCE 


CHAPTER   I 

INTRODUCTORY  REMARKS 

"Kind  messages,  that  pass  from  land  to  land ; 

Kind  letters,  that  display  the  heart's  deep  history, 
In  which  we  feel  the  pressure  of  a  hand- 
One  touch  of  fire— all  the  rest  is  mystery." 

— H.  W.Longfellow. 

"Every  day  brings  a  ship, 
Every  ship  brings  a  word; 
Well  for  those  who  have  no  fear, 
Looking  seaward  well  assured 
That  the  word  the  vessel  brings 
Is  the  word  they  wish  to  hear." 

— R.  W.  Emerson. 

The  nineteenth  century  is  the  grandest  of  all  the  centuries  of 
time.  It  has  done  more  for  the  education,  the  culture  and  the 
comfort  of  the  world  than  all  the  ages  that  have  gone  before. 
Schools,  seminaries  and  colleges  have  increased  to  an  almost 
fabulous  extent.  With  the  increase  in  numbers  there  has  been 
also  an  increase  in  efficiency  and  influence  to  such  an  extent  that 
our  institutions  of  education  have  become  the  glory  of  our  land. 
In  the  eventful  years  of  this  century  science  has  marched  on  with 
majestic  strides,  revealing  to  the  earnest  student  the  long-kept 
secrets  of  nature;  while  the  spirit  of  invention  has  been  busy 
through  all  the  years  making  the  path  of  life  easier  to  walk,  and 
redeeming  our  common  life  from  much  of  its  hardship  and  drudg- 
ery. The  railway,  the  steamship,  the  telegraph  and  the  telephone 
are  hard  at  work  bridging  over  space,  and  making  minutes  suffi- 
cient for  tasks  that  not  long  ago  required  months  to  perform. 
The  printing  press  is  regarded  by  common  consent  as  one  of  the 
greatest  inventions  the  world  has  ever  seen.  It  has  been 


FAMILY     CORRESPONDENCE  89 

described  not  inaptly  as  the  miracle  of  the  fifteenth  century.  But 
within  the  last  few  years  the  typewriter  has  come  to  claim  a  share 
in  its  honors,  and  to  take  its  place  among  the  most  wonderful  con- 
trivances of  the  age. 

It  would  seem  as  though  letter-writing,  which  half  a  century 
ago  was  a  _luxury  and  a  delight,  is  about  to  become  a  lost  art,  a 
mere  memory  of  days  of  happy  leisure.  Before  the  advent  of  Sir 
Rowland  Hill,  and  the  establishment  of  that  wonder  of  our  civil- 
ization, the  modernized  post  office,  men  and  women  of  education 
occupied  their  leisure  hours  in  writing  long,  delightful  letters 
to  their  friends. 

It  is  interesting  to  note  that  much  of  the  most  admirable  liter- 
ature of  the  eighteenth  century  took  the  form  of  letters.  The  best 
critics  and  essayists  of  that  time,  such  men  as  Addison,  and 
Steele,  and  Pope  were  aptly  described  as  "men  of  letters."  The 
severest  and  most  caustic  political  strictures  ever  written  were 
"The  Letters  of  Junius,"  though  who  "Junius"  was  remains  a 
secret,  and  will  probably  remain  so  to  the  end  of  time. 

But  the  world  moves  on !  The  days  of  leisure  are  passed, 'and  a 
busier  age  demands  quicker  methods.  In  answer  to  this  demand 
the  writing-machines  have  appeared.  These  marvelous  labor- 
saving  inventions  have  already  wrought  a  revolution  in  our  com- 
mercial life,  and  they  bid  fair  to  put  an  end  to  letter-writing  in  all 
branches  of  commerce  and  in  clerical  professions  generally.  Yet, 
as  long  as  the  world  lasts  letter  writing  will  hold  an  important 
place ;  indeed,  it  will  always  be  a  part  of  our  best  life.  Business 
even  will  sometimes  assume  such  importance,  and  involve  so 
many  intricate  details,  that  it  will  seem  that  nothing  short  of  a 
long  and  carefully  written  letter,  in  which  the  individuality  of  the 
writer  appears  in  the  character  of  his  hand-writing,  will  fully 
serve  the  purpose  of  the  occasion. 

There  is  something  formal  and  official  inseparable  from  a  type- 
written letter.  Type-written  letters  are  more  or  less  all  alike, 
they  have  no  individuality,  are  marked  by  no  personal  character- 
istics ;  while,  on  the  other  hand,  no  two  letters  from  the  pens  of 
different  writers  are  ever  alike.  A  firm  may  send  a  dozen  type- 
written letters  on  some  important  subject,  with  little  or  no  result. 
But  if  the  head  of  some  department,  or  better  still,  the  head  of 
the  firm  himself,  with  his  own  hand,  write  a  letter,  then  the  mat- 
ter is  sure  to  receive  prompt  attention.  Indeed,  any  matter  of 


FAMILY     CORRESPONDENCE 


more  than  ordinary  importance  is  surely  well  worth  the  trouble  of 
a  written  letter. 

In  more  intimate  intercourse,  the  hand-written  letter  still 
reigns  supreme.  The  mother  does  not  want  a  machine-written 
letter  from  her  son.  Type- written  letters  might  be  from  some 
other  son  to  some  other  mother.  She  wants  to  see  her  son's  hand- 
writing, for  to  her  loving  eyes,  his  angular,  awkward,  and  even 
misspelt,  letters  are  a  thousand  times  more  beautiful  and  sym- 
metrical than  any  letter  any  typewriter  ever  produced.  What 
ardent  lover  would  care  to  receive  a  type-written  letter?  Do 


not  lovers  fondly  linger,  and  dote,  and  dream  over  the  very  char- 
acters wrought  by  the  hand  they  love  so  well?  A  letter  from  a 
lover's  hand  is  a  revelation  that  no  machine-written  letter  can 
ever  be.  Besides  all  this,  are  there  not  dottings  of  i's  and  cross- 
ings of  t's,  and  countless  twists,  and  turns,  and  underlinings,  all 
full  to  the  brim  of  mystic  meanings  that  no  typewriter  on  earth 
could  convey? 

There  are  other  things,  moreover,  that  it  would  show  very  poor 
taste  to  commit  to  the  typewriter.  Such,  for  example,  as  letters 
of  condolence  or  congratulation.  No  thoughtful,  cultured  person 
would  send  a  letter  of  condolence  to  a  mother  who  had  lost  a  child, 
or  a  letter  of  congratulation  on  a  wedding  anniversary,  written  on 
a  machine !  It  would  be  as  far  from  good  taste  as  though  sent 
from  a  printing  office  in  printed  form. 

Who  would  have  cared  to  have  received  type-written  letters 


FAMILY     CORRESPONDENCE  91 

from  the  brave  boys  who  were  fighting  the  battles  of  freedom  thirty 
years  ago?  What  treasures  those  letters  were !  Written  from  the 
battle-fields,  on  scraps  of  paper,  with  the  drum  head  for  a  desk. 
Written  in  haste  while  "the  foe  was  suddenly  firing"  ;  crumpled, 
blotted,  and  sometimes  stained  with  blood.  How  the  mothers  and 
sweethearts  kissed  the  precious  missives,  and  even  sturdy  fathers 
were  not  ashamed  of  tears !  The  straggling,  imperfect  penman- 
ship was  beautiful,  seen  by  the  eyes  of  love.  While  love  and  ten- 
derness endure,  love  letters  and  letters  sent  home  must  be  written 
by  the  hand,  for  there  is  often  as  much  impressiveness  in  the 
form  of  a  letter  as  in  the  accents  of  the  voice.  In  short,  good  and 
careful  letter-writing  will  always  form  an  important  element  in  a 
liberal  education.  A  gentleman  is  nowhere  so  much  a  gentleman 
as  in  his  letters. 

It  would  be  a  good  thing  for  Young  America  to  take  to  heart  the 
thought  that  the  debts  of  personal  correspondence  are  very  sacred 
obligations.  It  is  a  cheap  and  easy  thing  to  say  that  the  friend- 
ship that  cannot  last  without  periodical  letters  had  better  die ;  but 
if  friendship  is  worth  having,  if  friendship  is  more  than  a  name, 
it  is  surely  worth  keeping  and  guarding,  when  all  that  is  asked  to 
keep  the  fires  upon  its  altars  aflame  is  an  occasional  kindly  letter. 
Thoughtlessness  in  this  direction  is  unkindness,  and  especially  in 
the  matter  of  letters  for  the  home  circle.  The  "exile  from 
home,"  in  far-away  lands,  finds  a  letter  from  home  as  cheering 
and  refreshing  as  a  fountain  in  a  dry  desert  land.  And  in  like 
manner,  the  home-circle,  and  especially  the  mother's  heart,  is 
made  strong  and  glad,  and  goes  comforted  for  many  a  day  by  a 
kindly  letter,  however  brief,  from  the  absent  and  the  loved, 

0- 

"Write  soon!"    Oh,  sweet  request  of  truth, 

How  tenderly  its  accents  come! 
We  heard  it  first  in  early  youth, 
When  mothers  watched  us  leaving  home. 

And  still,  amid  the  trumpet  joys, 

That  weary  us  with  pomp  and  show, 
We  turn  from  all  this  brassy  noise 

To  hear  this  minor  cadence  flow. 

We  part,  but  carry  on  our  way 

Some  loved  one's  plaintive  spirit-tune, 
That  as  we  wander,  seems  to  say— 

Affection  lives  on  faith— "Write  soon!" 


CHAPTER    II 

BETWEEN   PARENTS  AND   CHILDREN 

1 1 6.  To  a  Son  Entering  Business. 

L ,  April  27,  19— 

My  Dear  George:— 

The  fact  that  your  school  days  are  ended  and  that  you  are 
about  to  enter  on  the  real  business  of  life,  is  a  matter  of  deep 
interest  to  me,  as  well  as  of  great  importance  to  yourself.  I  am 
not  disposed  to  preach  a  sermon  to  you,  but  a  few  words  of 
good  advice  will  not  come  amiss  just  now.  All  I  want  to  say 
to-day  I  can  compress  into  three  very  brief  sentences.  Be  truth- 
ful. Be  honest.  Be  manly.  The  man  who  is  truthful  in  spirit 
as  well  as  in  letter,  who  is  so  thoroughly  honest  that  he  will 
neither  steal  nor  take  an  unfair  advantage,  who  is  upright  and 
manly  in  all  his  dealings,  is  the  man  who,  in  the  long  run,  wins 
competence  and  honor.  Let  the  Golden  Rule  be  a  guide  for  you 
through  life.  A  sentiment  from  Shakespeare  may  fitly  close  this 
brief  letter: 

"To  thine  own  self  be  true ; 
And  it  must  follow  as  the  night  the  day, 
Thou  can'st  not  then  be  false  to  any  man." 

God  bless  and  prosper  you  in  all  your  ways. 

Your  affectionate 

FATHER. 


117.  From  a  Son  to  his  Father  Offering  to  Leave  College. 

H College, 

H ,  February  2,  19 — . 

Dear  Father:— 

You  had  told  me  enough  of  your  affairs  during  my  visit  at 
home  to  prepare  me  somewhat  for  the  news  contained  in  your  last 
letter.  I  hope  even  yet  that  means  may  be  found  by  which  you 
can  meet  your  obligations.  I  shall  be  proud  if  I  can  be  of  any 
service  to  you  at  this  critical  time,  but  whether  I  can  or  not,  I 
shall  not  be  satisfied  unless  I  make  the  effort,  I  want  your 

92 


BETWEEN    PARENTS    AND    CHILDREN  93 

approval  in  what  I  propose.  .  You  have,  with  much  sacrifice  I 
know,  given  me  a  year  and  a  half  of  college  life.  I  can  never 
tell  how  much  it  has  meant  to  me.  Whatever  I  may  be  able  to  do 
for  you  now  will  not  repay  the  debt  of  gratitude  I  owe  you.  The 
semi-annual  examinations  are  just  over,  so  that  now  is  a  very 
convenient  time  to  break  off  here.  I  want  to  go  straight  to  work. 
With  energy  and  perseverance  I  can  find  something  to  do. 
Please  write  me  at  once  that  you  consent,  and  give  me  any  advice 
that  occurs  to  you.  I  would  suggest  that  I  go  to  Uncle  Henry's 
in  C ,  and  keep  his  books  evenings  for  my  board,  as  he  pro- 
posed last  fall.  I  know  of  nothing  new  in  his  circumstances  that 
would  have  caused  him  to  change  his  mind  about  wanting  me.  I 
have  written  to  him,  and  I  look  for  a  reply  to-morrow  morning. 
If  he  is  willing  to  take  me,  and  you  think  well  of  the  plan,  there 
will  be  nothing  to  prevent  my  going  at  once.  In  a  city  like 

C ,  there  must  be  plenty  of  employment  for  a  willing,  active 

young  man,  of  fair  ability  and  education,  and  good  principles. 
What  I  may  be  able  to  earn  will  perhaps  help  you  a  little  in  your 
present  difficulty ;  please,  dear  father,  accept  this  offer  from 

Your  loving  grateful  son, 

ALFRED. 


1 1 8.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

My  Dear  Bioy:— 

The  generous  spirit  of  your  letter  brought  the  tears  to  my 
eyes.  I  know  well  how  much  it  will  cost  you  to  give  up,  or  even 
postpone  your  college  course.  It  will  be  hard  to  break  off  class 
associations,  and  leave  the  work  that  you  find  so  congenial.  1 
wish  I  could  thank  you  for  your  noble  offer,  and  tell  you  that  we 
could  worry  through  without  your  help,  but  I  find,  that  my 
affairs  are  in  a  worse  condition  than  intimated  in  my  last  letter. 
Have  not  given  up  hope  yet,  still  cannot  conscientiously  refuse 
any  means  of  relief  that  comes  to  me.  Go,  my  dear  son,  to  your 
Uncle  Henry's,  and  God  bless  you.  Am  well-nigh  crushed  by 
this  trouble,  but  the  thought  of  your  manly  attitude  brings  me 
comfort  and  support.  With  God's  help  we  shall  pull  through. 

Your  affectionate 

FATHER. 


94  BETWEEN    PARENTS    AND    CHILDREN 

119.  To  a  Mother    from    Her  Daughter   after  First  Day  in 

College. 

R College, 

R t  September  20,  19 — . 

Dear  Mother:— 

You  have  probably  received  by  this  time  the  postal  card 
that  I  wrote  you  while  we  were  in  the  midst  of  unpacking.  We 
have  at  last  emerged  from  chaos.  I  wish  you  could  see  our  room 
— it  is  so  cosy  and  inviting. 

I  have  so  many  things  to  tell  you  that  I  hardly  know  where  to 
begin.  "At  the  beginning,"  you  will  say.  Very  well.  There* 
was  a  gay  crowd  of  laughing,  excited  girls  at  the  station  when  I 
arrived.  Such  kissing  and  little  shrieks  and  hugs !  I  felt  quite 
left  out  in  the  cold.  We  all  piled  into  the  college  bus  together. 
It  was  a  drive  of  two  miles  to  the  college  buildings,  and  the  scen- 
ery along  the  way  was  perfectly  lovely.  After  we  had  arrived  I 
was'  standing  quite  forsaken  in  the  great  main  hall  watching 
people  who  seemed  entirely  at  home  pass  back  and  forth  or  gather 
in  little  knots,  when  a  girl  came  up  to  me  and  said:  "You  are  a 
new  girl,  are  you  not?  If  you  will  tell  me  your  name  I  will  show 
you  to  your  room. ' '  Have  since  found  out  that  the  sophomores 
have  charge  of  looking  after  the  freshmen,  and  this  girl  was  a 
sophomore.  When  she  learned  my  name  she  went  to  the  office  to 
consult  the  directory,  and  came  back  and  took  me  to  room  89,  on 
the  third  floor.  There  was  a  large  bunch  of  daisies  in  a  vase  on 
the  table.  When  I  admired  it,  she  said,  "That's  the  way  we 
sophomores  have  of  hazing  the  freshmen."  We  had  a  long  con- 
versation, and  she  told  me  a  great  many  things  about  the  college 
and  what  to  expect,  and  finally  she  concluded,  "Now,  don't  for- 
get, Miss  Clarke,  that  I  found  you,  and  you  sort  of  belong  to  me. 
If,  at  any  time,  you  desire  any  wise  advice,  or  if  you  get  into  any 
scrape  and  want  to  get  out  cleverly,  why,  call  upon  me.  My 
name  is  Alma  Robertson,  address  No.  56,  east  corridor,  2d  floor. 
You  know  you  can't  do  much  till  you've  seen  Prexy,  so  you'd  bet- 
ter get  your  number  as  soon  as  you  can. ' ' 

I  discovered  before  long  what  she  meant.  There  were  about 
ten  girls  waiting  in  the  outer  office  of  the  President.  Some  one 
handed  me  a  square  of  paper  marked  53.  "No.  17  is  closeted 
now,"  a  girl  told  me,  "and  I  am  No.  18."  So  I  went  back  to  my 
room  to.  wait — no  longer  my  room,  however,  but  our  room,  for 


BETWEEN    PARENTS    AND    CHILDREN  95 

there  I  found  my  room  mate.  She  is  perfectly  lovely.  Her  name 
is  Elizabeth  Gyllane.  She  is  a  sophomore,  and  the  friend  from 
her  own  class  whom  she  expected  to  room  with  her  had  not 
returned  to  college.  I  know  Elizabeth  was  very  much  disap- 
pointed, but  she  made  me  feel  at  once  that  she  was  pleased  with 
the  arrangement  made  for  her,  and  she  was  as  sweet  as  could  be 
to  me.  She  is  one  of  the  most  tactful  and  unselfish  persons  I  ever 
met.  She  is  from  Virginia,  and  speaks  with  a  southern  accent. 
She  has  no  mother.  Do  you  think  that  is  why  she  likes  so 
much  to  hear  about  my  own?  She  says  she  has  a  very  clear  impres- 
sion of  you  already,  and  almost  loves  you.  I  never  got  acquainted 
with  any  one  so  quickly  before.  She  understands  exactly  what* 
you  mean  and  how  you  feel,  and  you  don't  have  to  explain 
things. 

Every  girl  has  to  take  an  hour's  exercise  a  day.  You  can 
walk  or  you  are  allowed  to  row  in  the  wide  flat-bottomed  boats,  if 
you  can  prove  to  the  authorities  that  one  is  not  strong  enough 
to  capsize  them. 

We  have  not  had  regular  recitations  yet,  but  our  lessons  are  all 
assigned  for  to-morrow.  I  had  no  idea  I  should  dread  it  as  I  do. 
All  the  girls  I  have  met  have  such  a  superior,  learned  air — not  at 
all  like  the  high-school  girls.  I  have  a  perfect  horror  of  being 
considered  stupid. 

Elizabeth  and  I  are  going  for  a  row  at  3  o'clock  this  afternoon. 
She  has  a  great  many  friends  who  are  always  coming  to  see  her 
and  making  plans  that  include  her,  but  she  told  me  this  morning 
that  she  wanted  me  to  go  out  with  her  this  afternoon — '  'just  we 
two  alone,"  she  said,  "for  a  nice  long  time  together." 

I  don't  know  what  I  should  do  without  her.  Last  evening  I  felt 
so  lonely  and  homesick.  I  was  thinking  of  you  and  papa  and  the 
baby,  and  how  long  it  would  be  before  I  should  see  my  beloved 
ones  again.  Elizabeth  found  me  in  our  bedroom  on  the  bed,  and 
she  was  just  splendid.  She  didn't  try  to  jolly  me  up,  but  instead 
she  was  very  serious,  and  talked  with  me  about  my  home.  She 
put  her  arm  about  me  and  said,  "Alice,  your  kind  of  homesickness 
is  a  blessed  thing.  One  may  be  homesick  because  one  has  no 
home  to  be  homesick  for. ' '  I  wondered  if  she  meant  herself,  but 
I  didn't  say  anything,  for  fear  of  making  her  feel  badly.  But  I 
thought  how  very  selfish  I  was  to  be  accepting  her  sympathy 
when  perhaps  she  needed  sympathy  more  than  I  did. 


96  BETWEEN    PARENTS    AND    CHILDREN 

Please  give  my  dearest  love  to  papa,  and  ask  baby  not  to  forget 
"Lala." 

I  am  sure  I  am  going  to  be  very  happy  here,  dear  mother, 
although  the  homesick  feeling  takes  possession  of  me  every  once 
in  a  while.  It  seems  already  as  if  I  had  not  seen  you  for  half  a 
year. 

You  must  have  been  very  tired  after  I  left  home,  you  had  worked 
so  hard  helping  me  get  ready.  I  find  I  have  everything  I  need, 
and  my  clothes  look  beautifully.  I  can  never  thank  you  enough 
for  all  you  have  done  for  me,  and  are  doing  for  me.  I  know  you 
will  say  that  the  best  thanks  I  can  offer  is  to  make  the  most  of 
my  opportunities,  and  I  shall  try  not  to  disappoint  you. 

Your  affectionate  daughter, 

MABEL. 

120.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

B ,  September  23,  19 — . 

Dear  Mabel:— 

Your  long,  interesting  letter  was  duly  received.  We  are 
very  glad  to  have  a  clear  idea  of  your  new  life,  and  to  know  that 
everything  opens  up  so  pleasantly.  Elizabeth  seems  to  be  a  very 
lovely  girl,  of  *>.e  sensibility  and  womanly  character,  and  I  hope 
sometime  we  may  all  know  her.  She  is  evidently  trying  to  make 
your  first  few  days  of  college  life  happy  ones,  and  kin  order  to 
reciprocate  her  unselfish  thought  for  you,  you  must  have  your 
eyes  open  to  see  her  needs  and  wishes.  I  have  regretted  that  you 
had  no  sister  of  your  own  age  to  share  your  room  with  you  at 
home,  for  experience  teaches  one  many  lessons  in  the  art  of  being 
an  ideal  room-mate — for  it  is  an  art.  Perfect  breeding,  delicacy 
of  perception  that  will  keep  one  from  ever  being  intrusive,  adapt- 
ability in  little  things,  orderly  habits,  responsiveness,  sympathy, 
unselfishness,  loyalty,  are  the  qualities  to  be  cultivated  by  one 
who  desires  to  be  at  all  times  an  entirely  agreeable  room-mate, 
and  these  you  have,  my  child,  all  in  more  or  less  degree,  I  believe: 
but  you  are  apt  to  be  thoughtless,  and  you  will  need  to  exercise 
care  and  self-control.  I  believe  that  the  friendships  you  form  at 
college  with  your  classmates  and  teachers  are  as  important  as  the 
studies  you  are  pursuing.  This  does  not  imply  that  you  should 
ever  neglect  your  lessons  for  social  enjoyment.  I  am  sure  you 
have  too  much  good  sense  to  draw  such  a  conclusion. 


BETWEEN    PARENTS    AND    CHILDREN  gj 

Your  father  and  I  are  very  anxious  that  you  should  derive  much 
culture  and  good  mental  training  from  your  college  course.  As 
far  as  you  can  command  your  own  motives,  study  for  the  knowl- 
edge and  the  discipline  to  be  derived,  rather  than  for  marks  or 
class  standing.  The  higher  one's  aim,  the  more  permanent  will 
be  the  result. 

It  is  hard  to  become  used  to  your  being  away,  my  precious  child. 
The  house  is  lonely  without  you.  But  it  is  for  your  good,  and  I 
am  so  thankful  that  we  can  give  you  this  opportunity  that  I  do  not 
grumble.  It  is  a  comfort  to  us  to  be  able  to  remember  that  you  have 
always  been  a  good  daughter.  We  love  to  recall  your  pleasant 
ways,  and  the  many  proofs  of  your  earnest  purpose  to  do  right. 

Write  to  us  freely,  and  tell  us  of  your  successes  and  your  diffi- 
culties, for  we  shall  want  to  know  all  thatconcerns  you. 

Gertrude  has  been  to  the  house  to  inquire  what  we  have  heard 
from  you.  She  will  be  delighted  to  have  you  write  to  her.  You 
must  not  forget  your  old  friends  in  making  new  ones.  Aunt 
Mary,  also,  will  appreciate  a  nice  letter  from  you. 

The  baby  wanted  to  write  "Bebel,"  so  I  gave  her  paper  and 
pencil,  and  she  insists  upon  my  enclosing  her  scrawl.  Good-bye, 
my  darling.  God  bless  you.  Father  says:  "Tell  Mabel  I  love 
her." 

Your  affectionate 

MOTHER. 


Z2i.  From  a  Son  to  His  Father,  Excusing  His  Extravagance. 

H ,  December  20,  19 — . 

Dear  Father:— 

I  can  never  thank  you  enough  for  your  kind,  indulgent  letter. 
I  am  deeply  sorry  to  have  occasioned  you  so  much  anxiety,  and  am 
most  grateful  to  you  for  your  timely  aid.  Believe  me,  in  the  future 
I  will  endeavor  to  give  you  no  further  cause  for  complaint,  and  I 
only  regret  that  I  should  have  allowed  myself  to  be  led  into 
such  thoughtless  exfe-avagance.  You  may  depend  upon  my  fol- 
lowing your  advice,  and  proving  myself  worthy  of  your  generous 
kindness. 

I  am,  dear  father, 

Your  affectionate  son, 

HARRY. 


98  BETWEEN    PARENTS   AND   CHILDREN 

122.  From  a  Mother  to  Her  Daughter  on  Her  Birthday. 

E ,  April  25,  19 — . 

My  Darling  Edith  :— 

I  have  planned  that  this  letter  should  reach  you  on  the 
morning  of  the  27th,  which  is  your  sixteenth  birthday.  Your 
father,  brothers  and  sisters  desire  me  to  speak  for  them,  and  to 
say  how  sincerely  we  send  you  a  thousand  good  wishes  on  this 
happy  day.  If  only  you  could  have  been  at  home  with  us,  that 
we  might  have  had  one  of  those  old-time  festivals!  But,  dear 
daughter,  the  path  of  duty  demands  many  sacrifices  of  us  all. 
You  are  where  it  is  best  for  you  to  be,  fitting  yourself  for  the 
serious  but  delightful  duties  that  must  sooner  or  later  demand 
your  attention. 

A  little  box,  which  I  hope  has  reached  you  safely,  contains  some 
trifling  tokens  of  affection  from  each  one  of  us,  which  I  know  you 
will  appreciate  to  the  full.  The  box  also  contains  the  materials 
for  a  pleasant  little  entertainment,  which,  I  have  no  doubt,  Mrs. 
Dash  will  allow  you  to  give  to  your  school-fellows,  as  I  have 
written  to  beg  a  half  holiday  for  the  occasion. 

God  bless  you,  my  dear  Edith,  and  may  every  succeeding  year 
find  you  increasing  in  all  that  is  wise,  in  understanding  and  in 
beauty  of  character,  is  the  earnest  prayer  of 

Your  affectionate 

MOTHER. 


123.  From  a  Son  to  His  Father,  Expressing  Dislike  of  His 
Present  Occupation. 

C ,  April  15,  19 — . 

Dear  Father: 

I  feel  that  you  will  be  disappointed  at  what  I  am  about  to 
say,  but,  after  due  consideration,  hope  you  will  not  think  I  am 
altogether  wrong  in  frankly  stating  my  dislike  for  office  work. 
I  have  now  been  here  nearly  six  months,  and  find  this  employ- 
ment as  little  to  my  taste  as  when  I  first  began.  Have  tried  my 
best  to  form  a  liking  for  the  work,  but  am  quite  sure  I  shall  never 
get  on  in  this  kind  of  occupation. 

Should  be  very  glad'  to  talk  the  matter  over  with  you ;  it  is  not 
that  I  am  afraid  of  work ;  am  sure,  however,  that  I  shall  never 
make  a  success  in  a  business  which  has  no  attraction  for  me. 


BETWEEN    PARENTS    AND    CHILDREN  99 

I  have  given  it  a  fair  trial,  and  have  put  off  writing  to  you  on 
the  subject  as  long  as  possible ;  but  as  there  is  no  chance  of  my 
changing  my  mind,  further  delay  would  be  useless.  I  shall 
hope  to  hear  from  you  in  a  day  or  two,  dear  father,  and  with  love 
to  all, 

Believe  me, 

You  affectionate  son, 

HARRY. 


124.   From  a  Little  Boy  at  Home  to  His  Papa. 

C ,  April  13,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Papa:— 

I  hope  to  see  you  soon,  you  have  been  away  a  very  long 
time;  when  are  you  coming  back  again?  I  have  tried  to  be  a 
good  boy,  and  Miss  Meriam  says  I  have  been  most  attentive  at  my 
lessons.  Dear  mamma  will  send  this  little  letter  with  hers.  I 
love  you  with  all  my  heart. 

Your  affectionate  little  son, 

FREDDY. 


125.  From*a  Little  Boy  to  His  Grandfather. 

C ,  August  5,  19 — . 

Dear  Grandpa: — 

I  hope  you  are  enjoying  good  health,  as  usual.  I  wish  you 
many  happy  returns  of  your  birthday,  and  I  send  you  a  little 
paper  knife  which  I  bought  with  my  own  money,  and  I  hope  you 
will  like  it  and  use  it ;  it  cuts  beautifully.  Carrie  is  going  to  send 
you  a  present  also,  but  I  must  not  tell  you  what  it  is  to  be ;  she 
made  it  herself. 

I  am,  dear  grandpa,  with  much  love, 

Your  affectionate  grandson, 

FRED  SELDEN. 


100  BETWEEN    PARENTS    AND    CHILDREN 

126.  From  a  Little  Boy  to  His  Uncle. 

C ,  May  4,  19 — . 

Dear  Uncle  George : — 

I  can  never  thank  you  enough  for  the  beautiful  watch  you 
sent  me  on  my  birthday.  Mamma  says  I  may  wear  it,  *but  I  must 
not  wind  it  up  until  I  am  older,  and  she  is  going  to  do  it  every  day 
herself  for  me.  I  have  learnt  to  tell  the  time  by  it;  it  is  now  a 
quarter  past  three,  and  we  are  going  out  for  a  walk  in  the  park ; 
so  good-bye,  dear  Uncle  George. 
We  all  send  you  our  best  love. 

Your  affectionate  nephew, 

FRED  SELDEN. 


127.  From  a  Little  Boy  at  School  to  His  Sister. 

R ,  May  31,  19—. 

Dear  Daisy: — 

School  closes  [on  Thursday  week.  I  hope  my  rabbits  are 
well,  and  my  pony  also.  How  is  the  garden  looking?  I  will 
help  you  all  I  can  in  it  when  I  come  home.  We  are  going  to  have 
a  baseball  match  with  the  high-school  boys,  this  afternoon;  so 
good-bye.  Give  my  love  to  all.  I  hope  mamma  got  my  letter. 

Your  affectionate  brother, 

EDDIE. 


128.  From  a  Little  Girl  at  School  to  Her  Mamma. 

W ,  October  19,  19 — . 

Dear  Mamma: — 

Am  so  sorry  that  Miss  Peabody  has  had  to  complain  of 
me,  but  I  do  try  to  learn  my  very  difficult  lessons,  and  when  I 
cannot  do  so  I  cry  until  my  head  aches.  Dear  mamma,  I  wish 
you  would  allow  me  to  put  German  aside  until  next  term,  and  then 
perhaps  I  should  get  on  better  with  my  French  lessons. 

Please  give  my  love  to  dear  papa,  and  tell  him  I  would  not 
make  him  unhappy  if  I  could  help  it,  but  I  have  so  much  to  -learn 
every  day,  and  all  the  girls  in  my  class  are  older  than  I  am,  and 
have  been  much  longer  at  school. 
With  lots  of  kisses  for  you,  papa  and  puss, 

Your  very  affectionate  daughter, 

MAGGIE. 


BETWEEN    PARENTS    AND    CHILDREN  IOI 

129.  From  a  Little  Girl  at  Home  to  Her  Absent  Mother. 

F ,  June  ii,  19 — . 

Darling  Mother- — 

We  all  miss  you  very,  very  much  indeed,  and  hope  to  hear 
in  your  next  letter  that  grandma  is  almost  well,  and  that  you  will 
be  able  to  come  home  in  a  day  or  two.  Papa  is  writing  to  you  by 
this  post.  I  am  going  out  for  a  ride  with  him  presently.  Nurse 
says  the  children  are  very  good  and  happy.  Lulu  cried  a  little 
last  night  because  she  could  not  say  good-night  to  you,  but  she 
soon  went  to  sleep  while  nurse  told  her  a  pretty  story  about  a 
good  little  girl  who  did  everything  her  papa  and  mamma  wished. 
Good-bye,  dear  darling  mother. 

Your  loving  daughter, 

KITTIK. 


130.  From  a  Little  Girl  on  a  Visit,  to  Her  Mamma  at  Home. 

O ,  August  15,  19 — . 

Dearest  Mamma: — 

Cousin  Flora  is  writing  to  you,  but  I  thought  you  would  also 
like  a  little  letter  from  me.  I  am  enjoying  myself  very  much, 
every  one  is  so  kind,  but  I  must  tell  you  all  I  have  seen  when  I 
come  home.  I  am  longing  to  see  you,  dear  mamma,  and  with 
best  love  to  you  and  dear  papa,  I  remain, 

Your  affectionate  daughter, 

SARAH. 


131.  From  a  Little  Girl  to  Her  Grandmamma. 

P ,  November  10,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Grandma: — 

It  was  so  delightfully  kind  of  you  to  send  me  such  a  beauti- 
ful doll!  Mamma  has  given  me  a  cradle  to  put  it  in  at  night, 
and  I  mean  to  take  it  out  walking  with  me  every  day.  Dear 
mamma  says  the  next  time  she  comes  to  see  you  she  will  bring  me 
with  her;  I  hope  it  will  be  soon;  don't  you? 
With  best  love,  dear  grandma,  believe  me,  as  ever, 

Your  affectionate  granddaughter, 

HATTIE. 


102  BETWEEN    PARENTS    AND    CHILDREN 

132.  From  a  Little  Girl  to  Her  Brother  at  School. 

B ,  October  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Charlie:— 

You  can't  imagine  how  much  I  miss  you.  I  have  no  one  to 
play  with  me  now.  How  do  you  like  being  at  school?  are  the 
lessons  very  difficult?  are  there  any  nice  boys  like  you?  Do  tell 
me  all  about  it ;  what  you  have  for  dinner,  what  hour  you  go  to 
bed,  and  what  games  you  play  at,  and  how  long  you  are  allowed 
to  play. 
Papa  and  mamma  send  their  best  love. 

Your  affectionate  sister, 

LULU. 


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CHAPTER   III 
TO  AND   FROM   RELATIVES,   GUARDIANS,   ETC. 

133.  From  a  Mother-in-Law  to  a  Son-in-Law. 

D ,  November  12,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Alfred:— 

I  was  delighted  to  hear  such  an  excellent  account  of  you  all 
from  Alice ;  although  it  is  some  time  since  I  have  been  to  your 
house,  still  I  must  always  feel  deeply  interested  in  all  that  con- 
cerns you  and  yours. 

Perhaps  I  was  too  hasty  in  concluding  that  the  advice  I  offered 
would  offend  you :  I  know,  it  is  generally  considered  that  a  mother- 
in-law's  interference  is  never  welcome,  however  reasonable  may 
be  her  remarks;  but,  believe  me,  dear  Alfred,  what  I  said  was 
meant  in  good  faith,  and  I  had  no  intention  of  censuring  or  criticis- 
ing any  arrangement  of  yours.  I  should  have  expressed  the  same 
opinion  to  any  friend  of  mine  under  similar  circumstances  had, I 
been  consulted.  The  fact  of  your  being  my  son-in-law  induced 
me  to  imagine  that  I  might  speak  frankly  to  you  without  fear  of 
giving  offence ;  indeed,  I  regard  you  as  a  son,  and  you  must  not 
be  too  quick  to  resent  words  my  motherly  affection  prompts  me  to 
say. 

With  kindest  love  to  Alice,  yourself  and  my  dear  little  grand- 
children, 

Believe  me, 

Yours  affectionately, 

EMILY  SHAW. 


134.  From  a  Mother-in-Law*to  a  Daughter-in-Law. 

P ,  December  30,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Maud : — 

I  have  to  tell  you  how  much  I  enjoyed  my  little  visit 
last  week,  the  first  I  have  paid  to  your  pretty  new  home,  and  I 
trust  many  years  of  happiness  are  in  store  for  you  and  my  dear 

103 


IO4         TO    AND    FROM    RELATIVES,    GUARDIANS,    ETC. 

son.  He  tells  me  that  he  has  in  you  the  most  considerate  and 
affectionate  of  wives:  I  sincerely  rejoice  that  it  is  so.  I  have 
seen  so  many  unhappy  marriages,  rendered  such  through  thought- 
lessness and  extravagance  on  the  part  of  the  wife,  that  nothing 
pleases  me  more  than  to  think  my  boy  is  so  fortunate  in  his  choice. 
His  limited  means  call  for  the  most  careful  domestic  management, 
and  not  a  little  self-denial,  and  it  is  so  easy  when  first  commenc- 
ing housekeeping  to  run  into  more  expense  than  one's  income 
justifies ;  but  this  error  I  am  sure  you  will  carefully  guard  against, 
always  remembering  what  strict  supervision  is  required  in  the 
smallest  domestic  details. 

I  have  learned  this  from  experience,  dear  Maud,  which  I  have 
found  to  be  the  best,  if  not  the  most  pleasant,  of  teachers. 

With  kindest  love  to  yourself  and  my  son, 
Believe  me, 

Yours  affectionately, 

MALVINA  WRIGHT. 


135.  From  a  Daughter-in-Law  to  a  Mother-in-Law. 

C ,  August  20,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Park:— 

Edward  and  I  are  most  anxious  to  know  if  you  have 
returned  home  yet,  and  how  you  have  enjoyed  your  stay  in  the 
mountains.  We  received  your  last  letter  dated  July  3ist,  and 
have  been  a  little  surprised  at  not  hearing  from  you  oftener. 

I  hardly  know  where  to  write  to  you,  but  suppose  this  letter  will 
follow  you  at  the  Summit  House.  Edward  is  pretty  well,  and  is 
looking  forward  to  his  vacation,  which  has  been  postponed  this 
year  on  account  of  extra  worfc  in  the  office,  but  we  do  not  regret 
this,  as  we  have  had  such  very  stormy  weather  the  last  three 
weeks. 

The  children  unite  with  me  and  Edward  in  love  to  dear  grand- 
mamma. 

Believe  me,  as  ever, 

Yours  affectionately, 

LILIAN  DWIGHT. 


TO    AND    FROM   RELATIVES,    GUARDIANS,    ETC.         105 

136.  From  a  Daughter-in-Law  to  a  Father-in-Law. 

E ,  February  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Winthrop  :— 

We  have  been  delighted  to  learn  from  your  last  letter  that 
you  have  been  quite  well  in  spite  of  the  severe  weather  we  have 
lately  experienced,  and  that  you  are  in  such  good  spirits.  How 
wise  not  to  let  the  small  worries  of  life  depress  you.  I  wish  I 
had  a  little  of  your  philosophy ;  as  it  is,  Intake  things  too  much  to 
heart,  and  am  inclined  to  allow  trifles  to  vex  me.  You  set  us 
all  such  a  good  example  by  your  unvaried  cheerfulness. 

I  suppose  you  were  very  much  interested  in  Tuesday's  meeting, 
as  you  are  such  a  keen  judge  of  politics ;  but  will  not  express  my 
opinion  of  it,  gathered  second-hand  from  my  husband,  in  case  it 
should  run  counter  to  yours.  This  you  may  call  cowardice  on  my 
part,  but  it  is  really  discretion. 

With  kindest  love  from  Ned,  also  myself,  believe  me,  dear  Mr. 
Winthrop, 

Your  affectionate 

HILDA  WINTHROP. 


137.  From  a  Sister-in-Law  to  a   Brother-in-Law. 

C ,  August'io,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Julius: — 

As  you  doubtless  know,  from  long  personal  experience,  my 
husband  is  a  very  bad  correspondent,  and  has,  I  have  discovered, 
allowed  your  last  kind  letter  to  remain  unanswered  for  nearly  a 
month;  so  I  will  try  and  take  his  place  as  far  as  possible,  and^ask 
you  to  accept  me  as  his  substitute.  Your  news  was  most  interest- 
ing to  us  both.  You  seem  to  have  had  a  very  pleasant  holiday ; 
we  quite  envied  you,  and  I  very  much  wish  Horace  could  have 
gone  along,  if  only  for  a  week ;  but  he  is  so  hard  worked  that 
there  seems  no  chance  of  his  having  even  a  day's  holiday  until  the 
end  of  the  season.  He  is,  however,  am  happy  to  say,  quite  well. 
I  suppose  you  will  be  ^back  about  the  end  of  the  kmonth ;  if  my 


106         TO    AND    FROM    RELATIVES,    GUARDIANS,    ETC. 

advice  is  worth  having,  I  should  say  do  not  make  the  long  and 
fatiguing  return  journey  too  quickly,  but  take  a  fair  amount  of 
rest  on  the  way ;  it  is  a  great  mistake  to  travel  night  and  day  after 
weeks  of  complete  repose  and  quiet,  and  is  calculated  to  destroy 
most  of  the  benefit  derived  from  change  of  climate  and  surround- 
ings. 
With  kindest  love, 

Believe  me,  dear  Julius, 

Your  affectionate  sister, 

EVA  DlLLINGHAM. 


138.  From    a    Brother   to   a   Married   Sister   Asking  for  Her 
Husband's  Influence. 

N ,  June  14,  19 — . 

Dear  Polly:— 

You  have  doubtless  asked  yourself  why  I  did  not  write  to 
you  lately ;  the  fact  is,  I  have  been  rather  out  of  spirits,  besides 
being  very  much  occupied. 

Am  beginning  to  discover  there  is  little  chance  of  promotion 
where  I  am  now  employed,  and  that  it  is  almost  time  to 
look  around  for  something  better.  Do  you  think  your  hus- 
band might  take  any  active  interest  in  me,  and  would  you  dis- 
like speaking  to  him  on  the  subject?  I  do  not  exactly  know  the 
extent  of  his  influence,  or  indeed  if  he  possesses  any,  but  I 
thought  from  the  responsible  position  he  holds  with  Lombard 
Bros.  &  Co. ,  he  might  perhaps  know  of  some  opening  that  would 
suit  me.  I  have  never  as  yet  spoken  to  him  about  my  own  affairs, 
and  if,  on  your  part,  you  feel  any  reluctance  in  mentioning  the  sub- 
ject, pray  do  not  hesitate  to  tell  me  so. 

Jack  seems  very  happy  at  school,  but  is  looking  forward  to 
spending  his  holidays  with  you. 

I  suppose  Mabel's  marriage  will  take  place  in  the  autumn,  from 
what  she  says. 

With  kind  love,  believe  me, 

Your  affectionate  brother, 

ERNEST  RAND. 


TO    AND    FROM    RELATIVES      GUARDIANS,    ETC.          107 

139.  From  a  Sister  to  an  Elder  Brother,  about  a  Temporary 

Loan. 

The  Misses  Sterling's  School  for  Young  Ladies, 

S ,  May  1 8,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Edward: — 

I  have  an  important  favor  to  ask,  which  I  trust  you  will 
grant,  if  it  can  be  done  without  any  real  inconvenience. 

I  have  just  received  a  very  pressing  invitation  to  go  with  Mrs. 
Hubbard  and  her  daughters  to  London  and  Paris ;  afterward  to 
make  a  tour  with  them  in  Switzerland.  This  would  be  quite  a 
new  experience  for  me,  as  I  have  never  yet  been  abroad.  I  could 
not,  of  course,  promise  to  join  them  until  I  had  consulted  with  you 
about  it,  dear  Ned,  and  ask  you  whether  you  would  make  me  a 
small  advance  to  meet  the  necessary  expenses  of  the  journey,  and 
to  purchase  the  few  things  I  should  require  before  starting. 

Would  you  think  $300  too  much  to  spare  at  the  present  time? 
I  have  a  little  money  left,  but  not  enough  to  justify  my  accepting 
this  invitation  without  some  little  help.  You  have  always  been 
so  kind  and  considerate  toward  us  all,  younger  children,  that  I 
know  you  will  gladly  give  me  this  pleasure  if  it  lies  in  your  power 
to  do  so.  It  seems  a  long  time  since  I  have  seen  you,  or  even 
heard  from  you,  but  I  know  how  many  your  engagements  are, 
and  that  a  letter  from  one  so  busy  is  hardly  to  be  expected, 
unless  there  is  something  especially  interesting  to  be  communi- 
cated. 

With  kindest  love,  believe  me,  dear  Edward, 

Your  affectionate  sister, 

PAULINE. 


140.  From  a  Niece  to  an  Aunt. 

A ,  July  15,  19—. 

Dear  Aunt  Selma : — 

I  do  earnestly  hope  you  and  Uncle  Phillip  have  not  thought 
me  neglectful  in  not  writing  to  you  before  this,  but  beyond  asking 
after  you  both  and  hoping  you  are  quite  well,  I  felt  I  had  nothing 


I08         TO    AND    FROM    RELATIVES,    GUARDIANS,    ETC. 

to  write  about.  I  lead,  as  you  know,  such  a  quiet  life,  and  the 
days  so  resemble  each  other,  that  I  can  hardly  distinguish  'them 
apart.  I  ought  perhaps  to  be  glad  of  this,  as  family  news  when  it 
has  to  be  told  is  seldom  a  matter  of  rejoicing ;  quite  the  contrary, 
it  generally  forebodes  trouble  and  sorrow — at  least  I  have  found 
it  so. 

The  east  winds  have  been  very  trying  to  my  mother  lately,  but 
I  am  happy  to  say  she  is  fairly  well  and  able  to  go  out  every  day. 
She  sends  her  love  to  you,  and  hopes  to  have  the  pleasure  of  see- 
ing you  and  my  dear  uncle  before  long. 

How  is  your  work  society  getting  on?  I  suppose  your  Sunday- 
school  picnic  will  take  place  next  month,  as  usual.  I  can  imagine 
how  busy  Uncle  Phillip  must  be  just  now  in  his  garden.  Are  the 
bees  thriving?  and  how  do  the  new  glass  hives  answer?  Has  he 
been  making  any  fresh  experiments? 

Please  give  him  my  best  love,  and  with  much  to  yourself, 
Believe  me,  dear  aunt, 

Your  affectionate  niece, 

SOPHIA  MOORE. 


141.  To  a  Cousin,  Wishing  a  Merry  Christmas. 

F ,  December  21,  19 — . 

Dear  Cousin  Jane: — 

I  wish  you  and  dear  Aunt  Mary  a  merry  Christmas,  and 
many  New  Years  in  the  happy  future. 

It  is  a  long  time  since  we  have  met ;  circumstances  do  not  bring 
us  together — quite  the  contrary ;  and  were  it  not  for  the  annually 
returning  Christmastide,  I  fear  we  should  almost  drop  out  of 
each  other's  recollection.  I  am  therefore  glad  of  the  oppor- 
tunity of  inquiring  after  you  and  Aunt  Mary,  and  trust  that  you 
are  both  pretty  well.  I  fear  she  is  rather  dreading  the  severe 
weather  which  is  prophesied  to  be  in  store  for  us,  but  prophecies 
are  not  always  fulfilled,  and,  in  any  case,  I  hope  she  will  not  have 
a  return  of  her  old  complaint,  rheumatism. 
With  kindest  love  and  best  wishes, 

Your  affectionate  cousin, 

EUNICE  GARY. 


TO    AND    FROM    RELATIVES,    GUARDIANS,    ETC.         109 

142.  From  a  Ward  to  His  Guardian,  Asking  for  an 
Increased  Allowance. 

D ,  March  10,  19 — 

Dear  Mr.  Wilson  :— 

With  great  reluctance  I  come  to  ask  you  to  make  me  a 
further  allowance,  but  the  fact  is,  I  find  it  impossible  to  meet 
the  necessary  expenses  that  I  am  compelled  to  incur,  on  the 
sum  at  present  allowed  to  me.  And  as  I  know  how  much  you  disap- 
prove of  my  getting  into  debt,  I  thought  it  best  to  [write  to  you 
frankly  on  the  subject,  and  ask  to  see  what  you  could  do  for 
me.  I  should  be  perfectly  satisfied  with  an  additional  $500  per 
annum,  and  trust  you  will  not  think  this  request  unreasonable. 
I  beg  to  remain, 

Very  truly  yours, 

REGINALD  ROBERTS. 


143.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

C ,  March  15,  19 — . 

Dear  Reginald: — 

I  dislike  extremely  to  refuse  a  request  of  yours,  but  were 
I  to  comply  with  the  last  one,  just  received,  I  should  Jonly 
encourage  you  in  extravagance.  Your  poor  father  considered 
the  sum  at  present  allowed  you  amply  sufficient  for  your  wants, 
and  I  do  not  feel  justified  in  acting  contrary  to  his  expressed 
wishes.  However,  I  have  no  objection  to  making  you  a  present 
of  $100  to  meet  any  pressing  claim,  but  must  again  warn  you 
that  it  is  imperative  you  should  restrict  expenses  within  the 
limits  of  your  allowance,  and  this  can  readily  be  done  by  giving  a 
little  more  attention  to  details,  and  by  being  less  thoughtless  in 
your  every-day  expenditure. 

I  am,  dear  Reginald, 

Your  sincere  friend, 

FREDERICK  WILSON. 


CHAPTER   IV 

TO,  FROM  AND  ABOUT  GOVERNESSES,  CHAPERONS, 
COMPANIONS,  HOUSEKEEPERS,  ETC. 

144.  From  a  Governess  Applying  for  a  Position. 

B ,  June  8,  19 — . 

MADAM  : — 

Mrs.  Alfred  D.  Campbell  informed  me,  this  morning,  that 
you  were  in  want  of  a  governess  for  your  two  little  girls,  and  she 
recommended  me  to  apply  for  the  situation  at  once,  thinking  that 
I  might  perhaps  suit  you.  My  experience  in  teaching  has  been 
gained  at  home ;  for  the  last  two  years  I  have  undertaken  the  sole 
tuition  of  my  younger  sisters.  I  may  say  that  I  have  been  well 
educated,  and  am  quite  capable  of  instructing  young  ladies  up 
to  the  age  of  fourteen.  Mrs.  Campbell  has  known  my  family  for 
many  years,  and  authorizes  me  to  say  that,  should  you  wish  her 
to  write  respecting  my  qualifications  and  fitness  for  the  post  of 
governess  in  your  house,  she  will  be  happy  to  do  so. 
Hoping  to  hear  favorably  in  reference  to  the  matter, 
I  remain, 

Yours  very  respectfully, 

GERTRUDE  LELAND. 


145.  Asking  a  Lady  Concerning  an  Applicant  for  the  Position 
of  Governess. 

B ,  June  28,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Campbell: — 

You  had  the  kindness  of  mentioning  to  Miss  Leland  that 
I  was  on  the  lookout  for  a  governess  for  my  little  girls.  I  under- 
stand, from  a  letter  I  just  received  from  this  young  lady,  that  she 
has  not  hitherto  filled  a  similar  situation,  but  this  I  should  not 
consider  a  drawback  if  her  qualifications  were  satisfactory. 
Would  you  say  she  was  thoroughly  well  educated?  Can  she  teach 
French  and  German  to  beginners,  and  has  she  a  good  knowledge 
of  music?  Is  she  both  amiable  and  conscientious?  She  says 
you  have  known  her  family  for  some  years,  so  no  doubt  will  be 

no 


GOVERNESSES,    CHAPERONS,    COMPANIONS,    ETC.          lit 

able  to~satisfy  me  on  all  these  points.  As  regards  the  question  of 
salary,  I  propose  giving  my  governess  $500  a  year.  Will  you 
kindly  mention  this  to  her,  and  if  your  answer  is  such  as  I  expect, 
I  shall  have  no  hesitation  in  engaging  her  at  once.  I  have  had 
a  great  many  applications  for  this  situation,  but  I  think  it  such  an 
advantage  to  obtain  a  governess  personally  recommended  by  a 
friend ;  therefore  I  am  so  much  obliged  to  you  for  advising  Miss 
Leland  to  write  to  me. 

With  kind  remembrances  to  you  and  Mr.  Campbell,  believe  me, 
as  ever, 

Very  truly  yours, 

MARCELLA  TYLER  PORTER. 


146.  Recommending  a  Governess. 

L ,  June  12,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Potter:— 

I  am  happy  to  be  able  to  speak  in  the  highest  terms  of  Miss 
Leland,  both  as  regards  her  capabilities  and  moral  training ;  she 
has  been  carefully  brought  up  and  well  educated ;  is  amiable  and 
high  principled.  She  speaks  German  and  French  fluently,  and 
her  knowledge  of  music  is  above  the  average ;  she  has  acquired 
some  experience  in  teaching,  through  having  instructed  her 
younger  sisters.  I  may  add,  from  what  I  know  of  Miss  Leland 
you  need  have  no  hesitation  in  engaging  her. 
Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

DELIA  STORY  CAMPBELL. 


147.  Answering  an  Advertisement  for  a  Chaperon. 

W ,  May  4,  19 — . 

Edward  Worthington,  Esq., 

N . 

SIR:— 

Replying  to  your  advertisement  for  a  "Com- 
panion and  Chaperon  to  a  young  lady,"  I  take  the  liberty  of  offer- 
ing myself  for  the  situation. 

My  late  husband  was  a  captain  in  the  U.  S.  army;  I  am  35 
years  of  age,  and  have  been  a  widow  three  years.  I  am  a  good 
linguist,  and  can  speak  French  >nd  German  fluently ;  so  that 


112       GOVERNESSES,    CHAPERONS,    COMPANIONS,    ETC. 

should  your  daughter  wish  to  continue  her  studies  or  travel 
abroad,  my  knowledge  of  languages  might  be  of  use  to  her.  I  am 
considered  a  clever  musician,  and  have  had  a  good  musical  edu- 
cation. The  salary  mentioned  in  your  advertisement  would  be 
quite  satisfactory  to  me,  and  I  should  consider  myself  most  fortu- 
nate were  my  qualifications  to  meet  with  your  approval. 

With  regard  to  references,  Mrs.  Black,  wife  of  the  Rev.  Phillips 
Black,  pastor  of  the  First  Presbyterian  Church,  this  city,  and  Mrs. 

Bruce,  1750  M Avenue,  N ,  would  be  very  glad  to 

answer  any  questions  respecting  me.     Awaiting  your  answer, 
Believe  me, 

Yours  respectfully, 

HONORIA  DE  WITT. 


148.  Answering  an  Advertisement  for  a  Companion. 

S ,  July  19,  19—.. 

Miss  Selma  White, 
City. 

MADAM  :— 

Answering  "your  advertisement  in  the  "Item" 
of  Saturday  the  7th  inst,  I  beg  to  offer  my  services  as  "Useful 
Companion  to  an  Elderly  Lady."  Should  not  be  afraid  to  under- 
take the  care  of  an  invalid,  and  to  have  the  management  of  house- 
hold affairs,  as,  in  both  these  particulars,  I  have  had  no  little 
experience  in  my  own  family.  Am  36  years  of  age,  and  the 
daughter  of  a  physician.  Owing  to  circumstances  with  which  I 
need  not  trouble  you  at  the  present  moment,  am  anxious  to 
obtain  a  situation  of  this  nature. 

I  have  been  accustomed  to  read  aloud  and  to  write  letters  from 
dictation,  and  to  entertain  elderly  people. 

Perhaps  it  is  premature  to  mention  references  in  this  letter,  but 
may  say  that  I  could  thoroughly  satisfy  you  on   this  point  by 
giving  you  the  names  of  several  ladies  of  high  standing,  in  this 
city,  who  have  kindly  promised  to  recommend  me 
Hoping  to  hear  from  you  favorably, 
I  am,  Madam, 

Yours  respectfully, 

EVA  B.  CLARK. 


GOVERNESSES,    CHAPERONS,    COMPANIONS,    ETC         113 

149.  Replying  to  an  Advertisement  for  a  Housekeeper. 

C ,  December  12,  19 — . 

Sylvester  Gary,  Esq. 

Answering  your  'advertisement  in  this  morning's 
"Tribune"  for  a  housekeeper,  I  beg  to  offer  my  services  in  that 
capacity. 

Am  35  years  of  age,  and  my  experience  has  been  [gained 
through  having  had  the  entire  control  of  my  uncle's  house  for 
seven  years.  The  whole  of  the  domestic  arrangements  were  in 
my  hands — the  engaging  and  dismissing  of  servants,  giving  all 
orders,  and  keeping  the  household  accounts.  I  also  superintended 
the  education  of  the  two  younger  children,  attended  to  their  ward- 
robes, and  had  the  entire  charge  of  them. 

Can  offer  two  unexceptionable  references,  besides  a  personal 
one  from  the  uncle  mentioned  above,  Mr.  Frank  Robinson,  310 
Masonic  Temple,  city. 

Have  no  doubt  that  you  will  receive  many  applications  for  the 
situation  vacant  in  your  establishment ;  still,  I  hope  that  this  offer 
of  my  services  may  meet  with  your  favorable  consideration. 

Respectfully, 

(Miss)  MIRANDA  TAYLOR. 


CHAPTER  V 

SERVANTS" 

150.  From  a  Housemaid  Applying  for  a  Situation. 

H ,  September  18,  19—. 

MADAM:— 

Mrs.  Matthews,  of  H ,  informs  me  that  you  are  in 

want  of  a  second  maid,  and  I  now  apply  for  the  situation.     Have 
been  living  for  the  last  two  years  with  Mrs.  Richard    Stevens,  19 

Davis  Street,  E ,  who  will  give  me  an  excellent  character.    I 

have  left  her  to  take  care  of  my  sick  mother,  who  is  now  quite 
well  again,  and  does  not  need  me  any  longer. 

Am  23  years  of  age,  and  am  strong  and  active.  I  received 
$4.50  a  week  from  Mrs.  Matthews.  Should  be  very  glad  to 
come  over  and  see  you,  any  day  you  may  please  to  name. 

I  remain, 

Very  respectfully  yours, 

MARY  SULLIVAN. 


151.  From  a  Housemaid  Accepting  a  Situation. 

H ,  September  21,  19 — . 

MADAM: — 

Your  letter  received  this  morning ;  I  beg  to  say  I  shall  be 
very  pleased  to  accept  your  situation. 
Shall  be  'quite  ready  to  come  to  you  on  Friday  the  24th,  and 

will  start  by  the  7 :  30  train  from  H . 

Very  respectfully  yours, 

MARY  SULLIVAN. 
114 


SERVANTS  115 

152.  From  a  Housemaid  Excusing  Herself  for  not  Taking  a 
a  Situation. 

H ,  September  21,  19 — 

MADAM:— 

I  trust  you  will  pardon  me  for  declining  your  situation ;  I 
fear  that  the  work  would  be  too  heavy  for  me.  Had  not  suffi- 
ciently considered  this  before  engaging  to  take  the  place  of  house 
maid  in  your  family,  but  feel  that  I  am  not  strong  enough  for  all 
that  would  be  required  of  me  in  that  capacity. 

Very  respectfully, 

MARY  SULLIVAN. 


.    153.  Asking  for  Information  Concerning  a  Maid. 

Will  Mrs.  White  kindly  inform  Mrs.  Grant  whether  she  consid- 
ers Eliza  Smith— who  lived  with  her  as  housemaid— to  be  strictly 
honest,  steady,  obliging,  and  in  all  respects  a  good  servant,  also 
the  reason  of  her  leaving  Mrs.  White's  service? 

L ,  January  19,  19 — . 


154.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

Mrs.  White  begs  to  say  that  Eliza  Smith  is  honest  and  steady, 
but  would  require  no  little  training  before  she  could  be  considered 
a  good  servant.  She  was  only  in  her  service  a  very  short  time, 
and  Mrs.  White  parted  with  her,  as  she  was  not  equal  to  the  work. 

L ,  January  20,  19 — . 


155.  Asking  for  Information  Concerning  a  Cook. 

W ,  January  10,  19 — . 

Mrs.  Hardwick  would  be  much  obliged  if  Mrs.  Beeton  would 
inform  her  whether  Mary  Brown  thoroughly  understands  the 
duties  of  a  family  cook,  including  baking  and  laundry  work; 
also  whether  she  considers  her  trustworthy  and  reliable.  Mrs. 
Hardwick  has  been  told  Mary  Brown  left  Mrs.  Beeton's  service 
by  her  own  desire,  and  that  she  is  willing  to  give  her  a  good 
character. 


Il6  SERVANTS 

156.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

W ,  January  12,  19 — . 

Replying  to  Mrs.  Hardwick's  letter,  Mrs.  Beeton  begs  to  say 
that  she  is  able  to  answer  all  her  questions  satisfactorily  respect- 
ing Mary  Brown ;  she  is  a  very  good  plain  cook,  and  well  up  in 
her  duties,  she  can  bake  good  bread,  irons  nicely,  and  is  most 
trustworthy  in  every  way.  Mrs.  Beeton  was  sorry  to  part  with 
her,  and  she  left  owing  to  a  disagreement  with  the  second  maid. 


157.  Asking  for  Information  Concerning  a  Butler. 

The  High  Cliff, 

N ,  June  3,  19 — . 

DEAR  MADAM  : — 

Peter  Williams  has  just  applied  to  me  for  the  situation  of 
butler,  stating  that  he  lived  with  you  in  that  capacity.  Will  you 
kindly  tell  me  if,  while  in  your  service,  he  was  steady,  sober,  hon- 
est, and  whether  he  thoroughly  understands  his  duties?  He 
informs  me  he  is  not  a  married  man.  May  I  ask  if  this  is  the  case 
as  far  as  you  know,  and  might  I  further  ask  the  reason  of  your 
parting  with  him? 

Thanking  you  in  advance  for  the  trouble, 

I  remain, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

GEORGE  SAINTSBURY. 


158.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

Hawthorne  Lodge. 

Mrs.  Stafford  regrets  to  say  that  she  must  decline  to  give  Peter 
Williams  a  recommendation.  She  may  further  add  that  he  was 
in  her  service  five  weeks  only. 

June  4,  19 — . 


SERVANTS  117 

159.  From  a  Cook  Asking  a  Lady  to  Recommend  Her 

D ,  December  5,  19 — . 

Mrs.  Raymond. 
MADAM: — 

Will  you  kindly  excuse  my  troubling  you,  but  may  I 
ask  if  you  would  have  any  objection  to  saying  what  you  could  in 
my  favor  to  Mrs.  Wyndham,  who  will  engage  me  as  cook,  if  I  can 
obtain  a  satisfactory  reference  as  to  my  capacity  and  character. 
Thought,  as  I  had  formerly  lived  in  your  service,  I  might  be  al- 
lowed to  refer  to  you.  Am  aware  that  I  cannot  ask  for  a  char- 
acter, having  received  one  on  leaving  your  service ;  but,  unfortu- 
nately, when  I  left  my  last  situation  the  lady  refused  to  give  me 
one  on  account  of  my  having  lost  my  temper  with  her,  she  having 
been  previously  very  violent  in  her  language  towards  me. 

I  mentioned  this  circumstance  to  Mrs.  Wyndham,  who  says  she 
will  overlook  it  if  the  answer  from  my  former  mistress  to  her 
inquiries  was  satisfactory. 

Shall  be  very  grateful,  madam,  if  you  will  grant  this  request. 
I  beg  to  remain, 

Yours  respectfully, 

MARY  O'BRIEN. 


160.  From  a  Nurse  to  Her  Mistress  Absent  from  Home. 

0 

P ,  August  10,  19 — . 

MADAM: — 

I  am  glad  to  be  able  to  inform  you  that  the  dear  children 
are  quite  well.  Miss  Nina  has  almost  lost  her  cough,  and  Master 
Robert  has  a  wonderful  appetite  compared  to  what  he  had  when 
you  left  home.  They  all  send  their  best  love  to  dear  papa  and 
mamma.  I  am  very  particular  in  attending  to  all  your  directions. 
The  house  is  kept  as  cool  as  the  season  permits,  and  the  heat  is 
quite  bearable.  I  never  allow  the  children  to  be  out  in  the  sun, 
and  I  give  them  cold  baths  morning  and  evening. 

Enclosed  please  find  the  list  of  things  wanted  for  the  young 
ladies  which  you  desire  me  to  send 

I  beg  to  remain 

Very  respectfully  yours, 

KATE  DALY. 


Il8  SERVANTS 

161.  Marriage  Proposal  from  a  Butler  to  a  Cook. 

N ,  March  12,  19 — . 

Dear  Miss  O 'Neil:— 

For  some  time  past,  I  have  been  anxious  to  make  my  feel- 
ings known  to  you,  but  have  not  had  an  opportunity  of  doing  so. 
I  therefore  think  it  best  not  to  delay  any  longer,  but  to  tell  you 
by  letter  that  I  very  much  wish  to  make  you  my  wife,  if  you  think 
you  could  be  happy  with  me.  We  have  seen  each  other  so  often 
the  last  two  years,  I  am  quite  sure  I  should  never  like  any  one  but 
you ;  and  want  you  to  express  the  same  favorable  opinion  about 
me,  and  say  that  your  heart  is  mine,  my  dear  Mary.  If  this  is 
so,  the  sooner  we  are  married  the  better. 

The  legacy  of  $600  received  from  my  late  master,  added  to 
my  'own  savings  of  the  last  ten  years,  will  enable  me  to  take  a 
boarding-house  in  a  good  location,  and  have  already  seen  one 
which  no  doubt  would  answer  very  well ;  but  I  cannot  decide  upon 
anything  until  you  accept  me  as  your  husband,  and  if  I  have  not 
greatly  mistaken  your  sentiments  I  believe  you  will. 

Believe  me  ever,  my  dear  Mary, 

Your  fond  lover, 

THOMAS  BLACK. 

162.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

H- 
My  Dear  Mr.  Black:— 

I  answer  your  kind  and  welcome  letter  at  once.  You  have 
not  mistaken  my  feelings :  I  have  a  great  respect  and  esteem  for 
you  joined  to  a  sincere  affection,  and  from  what  I  know  of  you, 
I  feel  sure  you  would  make  me  a  good  and  kind  husband,  and 
therefore  have  no  hesitation  in  accepting  your  offer.  Am  very 
much  flattered  by  your  good  opinion  of  me,  and,  as  your  wife,  I 
will  do  everything  in  my  power  to  continue  to  deserve  it. 

I  hardly  know  what  to  say  about  being  married  at  once,  as  I  am 
very  comfortable  in  my  present  situation,  and  putting  by  a 
little  money  every  year ;  but,  as  you  think  of  taking  a  boarding- 
house  at  once,  I  had  better  hear  what  you  have  to  say  before 
making  up  my  mind  either  way. 
Hoping  to  see  you  very  soon, 

I  am,  dear  Tom,  with  kind  love, 

Your  truly  affectionate 

MARY  BAKER. 


PART  III 
LOVE   AND    MARRIAGE 


CHAPTER   I 

PROPOSALS,  ACCEPTANCES,  REFUSALS 

163.    From  a  Gentleman  to  a   Young   Lady   Friend   of  His 
about  a  Misunderstanding. 

D ,  September  5,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Miss  Reiley:— 

Will  you,  please,  pardon  my  addressing  this  note  to  you?  I 
write  not  from  a  dislike  of  a  personal  interview,  but  because  it  is 
better  to  avoid  any  unnecessary  embarrassment  for  either  of  us. 
I  scarcely  think  it  is  due  to  over-sensitiveness  on  my  part  that  you 
have  seemed  of  late  to  repel  me.  Had  I  not  previously  been  made 
gratefully  happy  by  your  frank  cordiality  toward  me,  I  should 
unquestionably  accept  your  present  manner  as  indicative  of  your 
wishes  in  regard  to  me.  But  as  it  is,  I  don't  understand  you,  and 
I  am  sure  you  don't  understand  me.  If  I  have  offended  you  in 
any  way,  it  has  been  unknowingly,  and  it  would  be  a  privilege  to 
be  allowed  to  explain  myself,  or  apologize  if  needed.  With  this 
in  view,  will  you  give  me  the  pleasure  of  your  company  for  a 
drive  Saturday  afternoon  at  four  o'clock?  If  it  is  a  matter  of  per- 
fect indifference,  I  beg  of  you  to  rcake  no  excuses  in  consideration 
of  my  feelings  in  declining  this  invitation. 

Your  sincere  friend, 

JAMES  DUNCAN. 


164.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Kindly). 

D ,  September  7,  19—. 

My  Dear  Mr.  Duncan: — 

I  have  not  meant  to  be  mysterious.     If  any  inconsistency 
in  my  manner  toward  you  has  disturbed  your  mind,  it  is  for  me  to 

119 


120  LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE 

ask  your  pardon.  It  has  been  quite  unintentional.  I  will  be 
much  pleased  to  drive  with  you,  as  suggested,  Saturday  after- 
noon, when  any  further  explanations  that  may  be  necessary  can 
be  exchanged. 

Faithfully  yours, 

MARGUERITE  REILEY. 


165.  Answer  to  No.  163  (Conciliatory). 

D ,  September  7,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mr.  Duncan : — 

It  will  give  me  pleasure  to  drive  with  you,  as  suggested, 
Saturday  afternoon.  You  must  not  think  it  is  a  matter  of  indiffer- 
ence to  me  if  I  have  treated  you  with  injustice,  and  I  want  to  do 
my  part  in  coming  to  a  satisfactory  understanding.  Perhaps  an 
exchange  of  explanations  will  set  everything  right. 

Yours  sincerely, 

'MARGUERITE  REILEY. 


166.  Answer  to  No.  163  (Chilly). 

D ,  September  7,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mr.  Duncan: — 

I  think  that  my  manner  toward  my  friends  and  acquaint- 
ances usually  represents  me  correctly.  Truth  to  one's  self  will 
not  always  allow  absolute  uniformity  in  one's  outward  action. 
This,  I  trust,  will  sufficiently  account  for  any  change  you  may 
have  noticed  in  my  attitude  toward  you.  I  think  a  further 
exchange  of  explanations  will  not  be  profitable. 

Yours  truly, 

MARGUERITE  REILEY. 


167.   From  a  Gentleman  to  a  Young  Lady  Asking  the  Privi- 
lege of  a  Correspondence. 

M ,  July  7,  19—. 

My  Dear  Miss  Lyman: — 

To-day,  I  send  you  by  express  a  few  little  articles  belong- 
ing to  you  which  my  sister  Eva,  after  your  somewhat  hurried 
departure,  found  in  her  room  and  in  the  library.  I  hope  they  will 
reach  you  safely  before  you  notice  that  they  have  been  forgotten. 


LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE  121 

I  thank  you  for  inadvertently  furnishing  me,  by  your  oversight, 
a  plausible  excuse  for  writing.  I  should  esteem  it  a  very  great 
privilege  if  you  would  grant  me  permission  to  write  again  with- 
out an  excuse  for  doing  so,  and  I  should  be  gratefully  happy  if  I 
might  receive  a  reply  from  you  once  in  a  while. 

The  house  seems  quite  deserted  since  you  left.  We  all  miss  you 
— and  "all"  contains  a  very  emphatic  capital  "I."  Shall  send 
the  pictures  as  soon  as  I  have  finished  developing  them.  I 
believe  Eva  is  writing  you  all  the  news. 

Yours  sincerely, 

PHILLIP  HARRIS. 


168.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

S ,  July  10,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mr.  Harris  :— 

Very  many  thanks  for  sending  me  the  articles;  they  arrived 
safely  this  morning.  Do  you  think  it  quite  right  to  encourage  my 
habits  of  carelessness  by  thanking  me  for  my  thoughtlessness? 

I  have  just  written  a  long  letter  to  Eva,  telling  her  all  that  has 
happened  at  home  during  my  absence,  and  I  will  not  repeat  my- 
self to  you. 

I  shall  wait  patiently,  but  very  expectantly  for  the  pictures. 
When  they  come  I  will  write  you  my  comments  upon  them. 
I  should  be  much  pleased  to  hear  from  you  again  as  you  suggest. 

Thanking  you  for  all  you  did  to  make  my  visit  in  M a 

pleasant  one,  I  remain, 

Your  sincere  friend, 

ELEANOR  LYMAN. 

169.  From  a   Gentleman   Asking  Permission  of  a    Lady   to 
Address  Her  by  Her  Christian  Name. 

M ,  September  8,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Eleanor : — 

You  see  I  venture  to  call  you  by  your  given  name.  If  in 
thus  expressing  myself  toward  you  I  take  undue  liberty,  I  beg  you 
to  reprove  me,  and  I  shall  humbly  return  to  the  more  formal 
address.  I  think  of  you  so  often  that  I  seem  to  have  known  you  a 
very  long  time. 


122  LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE 

Am  working  hard  every  day  and  until  late  in  the  evening,  and 
I  have  not  yet  had  time  to  read  the  book  you  speak  of.  I  have 
drawn  it,  however,  from  the  library,  and  I  promise  myself  the 
pleasure  of  reading  it  Sunday  afternoon. 

I  feel  almost  ready  to  apologize  for  the  length  of  my  last 
letter.  It  seemed  as  if  I  couldn't  make  you  understand  my  friend 
Gunther's  difficulties,  without  the  dull  details  of  the  peculiar  cir- 
cumstances. I  thank  you  for  the  consideration  you  gave  the 
matter.  He  is  trying  your  plan. 

Am  very  glad  your  mother  is  better. 

Your  friend  as  ever, 

PHILLIP  HARRIS. 


170.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

S ,  September  15,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mr.  Harris: — 

I  like  to  be  Eleanor  to  the  good  friends  who  help  to  make 
this  world  for  me  such  a  delightful  place  to  live  in,  and  you  are 
one  of  them.  Thank  you  for  the  old  Indian  chief's  picture.  What 
a  fine  face  he  has ! 

I  am  to  take  the  children  to  a  picnic  at  the  river  side  this  after- 
noon, and  it  is  time  to  begin  putting  up  their  luncheon.  So  this 
must  be  one  of  my  short  letters. 

Your  sincere  friend, 

ELEANOR. 


171.  From  a  Gentleman  Asking  a  Lady  for  an  Interview. 

R ,  April  14,  19 — 

My  Dear  Miss  Brown : — 

Permit  me  to  ask  the  favor  of  an  interview,  at  as  early  a  date 
as  will  be  convenient  to  you,  if  you  will  be  kind  enough  to  grant 
me  one.  I  have  some  things  to  say  of  very  great  importance 
to  myself,  and  trust  they  will  not  be  without  interest  to  you.  I 
should  not  care  to  write  what  is  so  much  better  said,  and  shall 
await  your'answer  with  considerable  anxiety.  With  every  senti- 
ment of  sincere  esteem. 

Believe  me,  my  dear  Miss  Brown, 

Yours,  very  sincerely, 

ALFRED  D.  JONES. 


LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE  123 

172.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

R ,  April  15,  19—. 

Dear  Mr.  Jones: — 

Your  kind  note  of  the  i4th  is  at  hand.  I  shall  be  pleased  to 
accede  to  the  request  you  so  courteously  present.  If  Thursday 
will  suit  your  convenience  I  shall  be  at  home  at  five  o'clock  in  the 
afternoon.  Mamma  joins  me  in  best  regards. 

Yours  sincerely, 

ADA  BROWN. 


173.  From  a  Gentleman    to  a  Young   Lady,  Proposing   Mar- 
riage. 

M ,  November  8,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Eleanor: — 

I  was  disappointed  yesterday,  but  this  evening  your 
letter  came — and  what  a  welcome  it  received !  I  cannot  tell  you 
how  much  a  part  of  my  life  your  letters  have  become,  how  they 
have  helped  to  lift  me  to  a  purer,  clearer  atmosphere,  how  they 
have  made  the  common  things  of  everyday  seem  noble  and  worth 
while.  Should  our  friendship  end  here,  I  could  not  but  be  deeply 
grateful  for  what  you  have  done  for  me — done  unconsciously  by 
simply  being  what  you  are — and  all  my  life  I  should  be  a  better 
man  for  having  met  you.  At  the  very  beginning  of  our  acquain- 
tance you  won  my  heart  by  your  gentle  ways  and  your  bright, 
sweet  unselfishness  and  ready  sympathy,  and  time  has  only 
deepened  the  feeling  that  was  awakened  in  me  by  my  first  meet- 
ing with  you.  It  has  been  hard,  harder  than  you  can  ever  know, 
my  darling,  to  love  as  I  have  loved  you  and  be  silent  so  long. 
You  are  the  most  beautiful,  the  dearest  girl  in  all  the  world,  and 
I  love  you,  love  you  with  all  my  heart  and  strength  and  soul,  and 
long  to  prove  it  by  a  life's  devotion.  Dearest,  all  that  I  have  or 
am  or  ever  hope  to  be  is  yours,  yours  now  and  forever,  yours 
wholly  and  absolutely.  Would  I  had  more  to  offer  you !  It  is 
little— only  myself.  Dear  Eleanor,  can  it  not  be?  May  I  not 
devote  my  life  to  making  you  happy  and  myself  more  worthy  of 
you?  If  you  are  not  sure  of  yourself,  only  give  me  a  chance  and 
I  will  make  you  love  me.  Let  me  plead  my  cause  in  person.  I 
long  to  see  your  own  sweet  lips  and  eyes  say  yes  to  me. 

Yours  ever, 

PHILLIP  HARRIS. 


1*4  LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE 

174.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Favorable). 

S ,  November  12,  19 — . 

Dear  Phillip:—   '  * 

Your  letter  came  last  evening.  It  hardly  took  me  by  sur- 
prise, but  made  me  very  happy.  I  cannot  help  being  glad  that 
you  love  me,  Phillip,  and  have  begun  to  do  some  hard  thinking  to 
find  out  what  my  feeling  is  toward  you.  You  know  it  is  a  long 
time  since  we  have  seen  each  other  I  want  so  much  to  see  you 
again,  and  if  you  come,  as  you  suggest,  shall  try  not  to  disap- 
point you. 

Yours  sincerely, 

ELEANOR. 


175.  Answer  to  No.  173  (Unfavorable). 

S ,  November  12,  19 — . 

Dear  Phillip:— 

Your  last  letter  was  a  complete  surprise  to  me.  I  cannot 
but  feel  honored  by  the  kind  regard  of  one  for  whom  I  harbor  no 
sentiment  but  respect  and  admiration,  but  am  quite  sure  that 
our  friendship,  so  pleasantly  begun,  can  never  ripen  into  any 
deeper  relation. 

I  am  very  sorry  to  seem  unappreciative.  While  thanking  you 
for  the  honor  you  have  paid  me,  I  am  so  clear  that  my  view  of 
the  matter  is  right,  that  I  believe  a  fuller  consideration  on  your 
part  will  convince  you  also  of  the  same.  I  must  ask  your  pardon 
for  not  having  observed  earlier  the  course  of  your  thought  toward 
me,  but  did  not  know  that  you  regarded  our  friendship  in  so  serious 
a  light.  Forgive  me  and  believe  me, 

Your  sincere  friend, 

ELEANOR  LYMAN. 


176.  Marriage  Proposal  to  a  Lady  to  whom  the  Writer  has 
never  been  Introduced. 

C ,  May  15,  19 — . 

Dear  Madam: — 

I  know  only  too  well  that  I  am  taking  a  very  unusual  step 
in  venturing  to  address  you,  but  let  me  trust  that  under  the  circum- 
stances you  will  be  inclined  to  excuse  it,  as  unfortunately  there 
appears  to  be  no  other  course  open  to  me  of  making  myself  known. 


LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE  /25 

Your  beauty  has  inspired  me  with  a  most  sincere  admiration,  and 
the  various  occasions  on  which  I  have  had  the  pleasure  of  seeing 
you  have  served  but  to  deepen  the  impression  at  first  created ; 
thus  the  one  hope  that  animates  me  in  writing,  is  that  you 
may  be  induced  to  return  my  affection  and  ultimately  become  my 
wife.  My  position  and  means  would,  probably,  be  found  satisfac- 
tory to  your  friends,  and  I  trust  you  will  give  me  an  early  oppor- 
tunity of  pleading  my  suit  in  person,  and  of  offering  every 
possible  explanation  to  your  relatives  respecting  my  prospects  in 
life.  In  the  meantime,  I  should  tell  you  that  I  have  lately  become 
a  junior  partner  in  the  well-known  firm  of  Messrs.  Andrews 
Bros,  civil  engineers  and  contractors,  of  this  city,  and  am 
thoroughly  able  to  maintain  a  wife  in  comfort,  if  not  in  luxury. 
Kindly  accept  my  enclosed  photograph.  Dare  I  hope  that  it  may 
silently  speak  for  me? 

Believe  me,  dear  madam,  with  humblest  apology  for  my  bold- 
ness, 

Yours  most  respectfully, 

SYLVESTER  LANGDON. 

Miss  Ethel  Dunlap. 


177.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Favorable). 

C ,  May  1 6,  iq — . 

Dear  Sir:— 

Your  letter  received  this  morning  surprised  me  greatly, 
coming  from  an  entire  stranger.  I  at  once  showed  it  to  my  aunt, 
with  whom  I  am  staying,  and  she  considers  it  so  straightforward, 
that  she  sees  no  objection  to  your  calling  on  her,  especially  as  she 
is  slightly  acquainted  with  some  members  of  your  family.  My 
aunt  will  be  at  home  about  four  o'clock,  but  you  must  not  con- 
sider this  permission  to  call  as  an  encouragement  of  ycur  hopes 
on  my  part.  It  is  merely  an  opportunity  afforded  by  my  relt  • 
tive  of  our  becoming  acquainted. 
Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

ETHEL 
Svlvester  Langdon,  Esq. 


126  LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE 

178.  Answer  to  No.   176  (Unfavorable). 

C ,  May  17,  19—. 

Miss  Ethel  Dunlap  was  naturally  very  much  surprised  at  the 
contents  of  Mr.  Langdon's  letter.  She  hastens  to  inform  him 
that  it  is  out  of  the  question  she  should  entertain  his  proposals. 
She  need  not  trouble  him  with  her  reasons  for  this  decision 
beyond  saying  that  they  are  quite  -conclusive,  and  she  very  much 
regrets,  for  Mr.  Langdon's  sake,  that  he  should  have  allowed  him- 
self to  think  of  her  for  a  moment.  She  begs  to  return  his  photo, 
and  to  add  that  she  trusts  the  impression  she  appears  to  have 
made  upon  him  will  prove  but  a  very  transitory  one. 


179.  Marriage   Proposal   to  a  Young   Lady  Unaware   of  the 
Writer's  Intentions. 

B ,  May  i,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Miss  Starr:— 

I  have  met  you  very  frequently  at  your  father's  house  and 
elsewhere,  and  your  manner  has  ever  been  most  kind  and  friendly 
towards  me.  Yet  I  dare  not  natter  myself  that  you  are  aware 
of  the  deep  love  I  entertain  for  you,  a  love  which  now  emboldens 
me  to  write  and  to  confess  how  the  hope  of  gaining  your  affection 
and  of  inducing  you  to  become  my  wife,  has  been  for  the  last  few 
months  uppermost  in  my  mind.  Should  I  be  so  fortunate  as  to 
win  your  regard,  your  happiness  should  be  my  one  thought  and 
care,  and  you  should  never  regret  having  entrusted  it  to  my  keep- 
ing. 

I  shall  await  your  answer  with  the  greatest  impatience.  If 
there  is  any  hope,  hasten  to  put  an  end  to  jny  anxieties,  and 
make  me  the  happiest  of  men. 

If,  on  the  other  hand,  you  require  time  for  consideration,  do  not 

be  afraid  to  ask  for  it.     Now  that  you  know  how  dearly  I  love 

you  I  can  afford. to  leave  my  cause  in  your^hands,  and  to  wait  any 

length  of  time  you  may  consider  necessary  for  your  final  decision. 

Believe  me,  dear  Miss  Starr, 

Yours  very  faithfully, 

JOHN  PEABODY, 


LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE  127 

180.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Favorable). 

B ,  May  3,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Peabody: — 

Hitherto  I  have  looked  upon  you  only  as  a  friend,  and  I 
can  hardly  yet  realize  that  you  wish  me  to  regard  you  in  any 
other  light.  From  what  I  already  know,  I  have  no  doubt  that 
you  would  make  any  girl  very  happy  whom  you  loved,  but, 
although  I  have  a  great  liking  and  esteem  for  you,  I  cannot  say 
that  I  return  your  affection  as  you  deserve. 

However,  as  I  know  how  good  and  kind  you  are,  and  how 
highly  both  my  father  and  mother  think  of  you,  let  us  hope  that 
in  time  I  may  learn  to  love  as  much  as  I  esteem.  It  is  perhaps 
better  not  to  say  more  at  present.  Please  believe  in  my  deep-felt 
gratitude  for  the  offer  of  your  life's  devotion. 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

LUCY  STARR. 


181.  Answer  to  No.  179  (Unfavorable). 

B ,  May  3,  19.— 

Dear  Mr.  Peabody:— 

Your  letter  has  occasioned  me  much  pain,  because  I  have 
but  one  answer  to  make  to  it.  I  wish  for  your  sake  it  were  other- 
wise, but  you  must  only  think  of  me  as  a  friend. 

Great  as  is  the  honor  you  have  done  me  in  asking  me  to  become 
your  wife,  I  must  hold  out  no  hope  of  such  a  possibility.  Kindly 
accept  this  answer  as  final,  and  do  not  press  me  for  a  reason.  I 
shall  always  value  your  friendship  very  highly,  and  trust  that 
after  a  little  time  we  may  meet  again  as  friends,  and  that  you  will 
forgive  me  for  the  disappointment  of  to-day,  which  I  cause  so 
unwillingly. 

With  best  wishes  for  your  happiness, 
Believe  me, 

Very  sincerely, 

LUCY  STARR. 


128  LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE 

182.  Marriage  Proposal  from  a  Gentleman  to  a  Lady  to  whom 
he  has  paid  Marked  Attentions. 

T ,  July  21,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Miss  Jones : — 

I  earnestly  hope  not  to  be  mistaken  in  thinking  you  are 
aware  of  the  sentiments  I  entertain  for  you ;  I  have  made  this 
very  plain  in  the  attentions  I  had  the  happiness  of  paying  you ; 
but  lest  any  doubt  should  exist  in  your  mind  as  to  the  strength 
of  my  attachment,  let  me  tell  you  how  very  dear  you  are  to  me, 
and  how  each  time  I  have  seen  you  the  feeling  has  deepened  into 
more  devoted  love. 

I  feel  sure  that  I  am  not  indifferent  to  you,  and  that  were  it 
otherwise,  you  are  too  kindhearted  to  have  misled  me  into  believ- 
ing this,  and],therefore  do  not  hesitate  to  ask  for  your  love.  May 
I  write  to  your  father  on  this  subject  at  once?  You  see,  your  con- 
sent is  taken  for  granted.  Still,  my  dearest,  I  shall  look  with 
some  anxiety  for  the  assurance  that  I  have  not  misunderstood 
your  feelings,  and  that  you  return  my  affection,  so  that  before 
long  I  may  have  the  happiness  of  claiming  you  as  my! 'wife.  How 
cruel  that  our^  being  away  from  each  other  obliges  me  to  write 
what  it  would  have  been  such  a  delight  to  speak  out  in  unmistak- 
able words. 

Believe  me  ever  yours, 

Devotedly, 

FRANK  LISCOMBE. 


183.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

A ,  July  23,  19—. 

Dear  Mr.  Liscombe:— 

Your  letter  has  made  me  very  happy.  For  some  time,  I 
have  believed  that  you  cared  for  me ;  how  could  I  think  other- 
wise, from  the  way  in  which  you  constantly  devoted  yourself  to 
me?  Still,  I  was  very  glad  to  receive  the  confession  of  your  sin- 
cere attachment,  and  will  not  attempt  to  conceal  how  truly  I 
return  it,  and  how  earnestly  I  shall  endeavor  to  prove  worthy  of 


LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE  1 29 

your  devotion.  I  feel  sure,  that  there  is  perfect  sympathy 
between  us,  and  that  my  happiness  will  be  as  safe  in  your  hands 
as  yours  will  be  in  mine. 

My  father  has  been  told  of  your  proposal,  and   wishes  me  to 
say,  that  he  will  be  pleased  to  hear  from  you. 
Believe  me  yours, 

Always  affectionately, 

ISABELLA  JONES. 


184.  Marriage  Proposal   from  a  Gentleman  of  Small   Means. 

C ,  May  19,  19 — . 

Dear  Miss  Southgate: —  % 

For  several  days  I  have  been  pondering  in  my  mind  whether 
it  would  be  best4o  write  or  speak  to  you  on  the  subject  that  is  near- 
est to  my  heart,  or  whether  it  would  be  wiser  for  your  sake  to  keep 
silence  altogether;  however,  I  have  now  decided  to  plead  my 
cause  as  best  I  can. 

Do  you  think  you  could  be  happy  as  the  wife  of  a  poor  man? 
would  you  be  content  to  wait  until  such  time  as'  my  income  would 
justify  me  in  marrying?  would  the  knowledge  that  my  heart  is  all 
your  own  induce  you  to  feel  a  corresponding  affection  for  me?  or 
am  I  asking  too  much?  Would  you  be  afraid  to  enter  into  a  long 
engagement,  an  engagement  of  perhaps'two  years?  Although  I 
am  not  in  a  position  to  maintain  a  wife  at  the  present  time,  my 
prospects  are  encouraging,  as  my  uncle  has  promised  to  take 
me  into  partnership  early  next  year,  which  will  materially 
improve  my  position.  In  the  meantime,  the  knowledge  that  I  am 
working  for  you  will  brighten  every  hour  of  my  life,  while  for 
your  goodness  in  thus  waiting  and  trusting,  no  after-devotion  on 
my  part  can  ever  repay. 

I  hope  your  answer  will  not  be  long  delayed,  as  my  anxiety 
will  be  great,  indeed. 

Believe  me,  dear  Miss  Southgate, 

Yours  very  "faithfully, 

ARTHUR  REDFIELD. 


130  LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE 

185.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Favorable). 

O ,  May  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Redfield:— 

It  would  not  be  truthful  for  me  to'say  that  I  am  surprised 
at  the  contents  of  your  letter ;  on  the  contrary,  I  almost  knew 
beforehand  what  you  were  anxious  to  say  to  me  and  what  I  was 
anxious  to  hear.  You  cannot  suppose  I  should  be  afraid  to  be  a 
poor  man's  wife ;  my  love  would  be  little  worth  having  if  it  were  so : 
no,  I  do  not  dread  a  long  engagement,  it  will  give  us  time  to  know 
each  other  better ;  my  attachment  to  you  is  sufficiently  strong  to 
bear  the  strain.  I  am  not  afraid  that  your  feelings  will  undergo  a 
change  towards  me,  or  that  mine  will  alter  towards  you.  Indeed, 
should  either  of  us  cease  to  love  the  other  it  would  only  prove  how 
wise  we  were  to  put  our  affection  to  the  test  by  waiting. 

My  mother,  I  am  sorry  to  say,  entertains  a  prejudice  against 
long  engagements;  she  has  no  real  objection  to  this  particular 
one,  however,  as  she  has  a  personal  liking  for  you,  so  I  think  she 
will  not  oppose  the  realization  of  our  wishes,  as  she  will  know  that 
my  happiness  is  so  deeply  concerned,  and  together  I  hope  we 
shall  make  her  believe  that  she  approves  of  our  attachment  and  of 
our  engagement. 

I  shall  hope  to  see  you  to-morrow ;  dear  Mr.  Redfield, 

Believe  me, 

Yours  lovingly, 

MABEL  SOUTHGATB. 


186.  Answer  to  No.  184  (Unfavorable). 

O ,  May  10,  19—. 

Dear  Mr.  Redfield:— 

Believe  me,  I  am  deeply  grieved  at  the  answer  I  am  obliged 
to  give  you ;  but  I  have  no  alternative  than  to  write  as  I  am  now 
doing.  My  father  will  not  for  a  moment  hear  of  our  engagement, 
and  whatever  my  own  feelings  may  be,  you  would  not,  I  am  sure, 
wish  me  to  disobey  him.  He  considers  a  long  engagement  would 
be  most  [imprudent  on  our  part ;  he  says  you  may  not  be  in  the 


LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE  131 

same  mind  two  years  hence,  and  that  your  prospects  are  too 
uncertain  to  render  such  a  step  advisable. 

All  this  sounds  cold  and  hard;  but,  coming  from  him,  it  must 
be  said.  I  dare  not  hold  out  a  hope  that,  if  we  are  both  free  "two 
years  hence,"  you  might  expect  a  very  different  answer,  because 
this  might  appear  in  the  light  of  a  secret  understanding;  still,  I 
do  not  think  that  I  shall  easily  forget  you,  or  stop  thinking  of 
you,  or  cease  to  take  a  warm  interest  in  all  that  concerns  you. 
Dear  Mr.  Redfield,  good-bye,  forgive  me  for  the  disappointment 
I  am  compelled  to  inflict,  think  of  me  kindly,  and  believe  me, 

Yours  very  sincerely, 

MABLE  SOUTHGATE. 


187.   Marriage   Proposal   from   a   Middle-aged  Gentleman  to  a 
Young  Lady. 

B ,  January  15,  19—. 

Dear  Miss  Sutter: — 

Lately  I  have  had  the  happiness  of  meeting  you  very  fre- 
quently at  the  houses  of  mutual  friends,  and  each  occasion  has 
served  to  strengthen  the  impression  made  upon  me  on  first  seeing 
you.  I  should  consider  myself  the  most  fortunate  of  men  if  I 
could  persuade  you  to  accept  me  as  your  future  husband.  Though 
well  aware  of  the  disparity  of  age  that  exists  between  us,  I 
trust  that  you  will  not  regard  it  as  a  bar  to  my  happiness.  I  am 
still,  if  I  say  so  myself,  in  the  prime  of  life,  and  the  experience 
my  years  give  me  will  better  enable  me  to  shield  your  youth,  and 
be  protector  and  considerate  counselor,  as  well  as  the  most  de- 
voted of  husbands,  if  you  will  give  me  the  right  to  be  so. 

Although  not  a  rich  man  by  any  means,  still  I  can  offer  you 
every  possible  comfort  that  easy  circumstances  permit.  As  to  my 
position  and  surroundings,  they  are  well  known  to  you.  I  trust 
I  have  not  been  premature  in  disclosing  my  hopes,  and  that  they 
may  receive  favorable  consideration  at  yoyr  hands. 

Pray  believe  me,  dear  Miss  Sutter, 

Very  faithfully  yours, 

CHARLES  GRANT  LEWIS. 


132  LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE 

1 88.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Favorable). 

B ,  January  17,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Lewis : — 

I  deeply  appreciate  the  honor  you  have  done  me  in  asking 
for  my  hand.  Although  I  have  always  entertained  a  great 
esteem  and  regard  for  you,  I  had  not,  hitherto,  thought  of  you  as 
a  lover;  but  perhaps,  in  time,  may  feel  the  affection  which 
is  due  from  [a  woman  to  the  one  who  is  to  be  her  husband ;  only 
you  must  be  content  to  wait  a  little,  and  not  expect  too  much 
at  first.  Allow  me  to  add  that  my  heart  is  quite  disengaged,  and 
that  you  have  no  rival  to  contend  with,  merely  the  ideal  hero  who 
finds  a  place  in  the  imagination  of  most  girls.  My  sister  thinks 
that  I  am  very  fortunate  to  have  won  your  affections,  and  she  hopes 
that  you  will  soon  give  her  an  opportunity  of  telling  you  so.  I 
shall  remain  here  for  the  next  three  weeks,  when  mamma  is  com- 
ing up  for  a  few  days  to  take  me  back  home.  I  have  written  to 
her  of  your  letter,  and  shall  doubtless  receive  an  answer  soon. 

With  my  sister's  kind  regards  and  mine,  believe  me,  dear  Mr. 
Lewis, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

MARGARET  S  UTTER. 


189.  Answer  to  No.  187  (Unfavorable). 

B ,  January  17,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Lewis : — 

While  sincerely  grateful  for  the  high  compliment  you  pay 
me  in  asking  me  to  be  your  wife,  I  cannot,  to  my  regret,  enter- 
tain your  proposal.  I  like  you  very  much  indeed  as  a  friend,  but 
am  quite  sure  I  should  not  be  happy  with  one  so  much  older 
than  myself.  You  would  probably  think  me  foolish  if  not  frivo- 
lous, and  I  should  very  likely  fear  you  more  than  love  you.  In 
a  word,  I  should  not  be  a  suitable  wife.  Please  do  not  think  of 
me  in  that  light,  as  it  would  not  be  f  orjthe  happiness  of  either 
of  us. 

My  sister  thinks  otherwise,  and  wished  me  to  return  a  very 
different  answer ;  but  you  are  too  good  and  kind  for  any  one  to 
marry  you  save  from  motives  of  affection. 
With  all  good  wishes,  believe  me, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

MARGARET  SUTTER. 


LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE  133 

190.  Marriage  Proposal  from  a  Widower  to  a  Widow. 

S ,  July  18,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Lothrop: — 

I  have  been  pondering  many  things — reviewing  the  past, 
looking  forward  to  the  future,  and  trying  to  see  the  meaning,  the 
purpose,  running  through  the  tangled  web  of  life.  We  don't 
either  of  us  believe  that  chance  directs  our  course  in  this  world.  It 
was  not,  then,  chance  that  brought  us  together  at  the  anniver- 
saries three  years  ago.  Since  that  time  we  have  had  many  oppor- 
tunities of  becoming  acquainted ;  our  children  have  grown  to  be 
fast  friends;  my  boy's  heart  was  won  to  you  from  the  first  word 
you  ever  spoke  to  him.  Chance  has  not  worked  all  this;  nor  is  it 
chance,  dear  Mrs.  Lothrop,  that  opened  my  eyes  to  find  in  you 
my  ideal  of  perfect  womanhood. 

The  brief  happiness  that  has  been  mine  is  a  memory  sacredly 
cherished  for  its  own  sake,  but  the  disappointments,  the  strug- 
gles, the  sorrows  of  my  life  have  served  only  to  prepare  me  to 
appreciate  the  nobility,  the  sweetness  and  the  truth  of  your 
nature,  and  my  own  need  of  you.  Dear  Mrs.  Lothrop,  I  love  you 
with  the  deep,  unchanging  love  of  matured  manhood.  I  long  to 
cherish  you,  to  protect  you  and  your  little  son  from  the  rude  blows 
of  the  world. 

We  cannot  either  of  us  forget  the  past.  Those  whom  we  have 
loved  and  who  have  loved  us  will  not  rejoice  to  see  us  sad  and 
lonely  for  their  sake.  Surely  we  should  not  wish  them,  in  that 
brighter  world  where  they  have  gone,  to  be  sad  for  us,  and  shut 
out  other  love  and~friendship. 

Your  boy' will  "soon  need  a  father,  mine  wants  a  mother  now; 
we  need  [each  other,  and  I  love  you  with  all  the  strength  of  my 
being.  Can  you  not  learn  to  reciprocate  'my  feelings,  and  if  so 
may  we  not  hope  for  God's  blessing  in  joining  our  earthly  fates? 

Yours  ever, 

HENRY  WALDRON. 


191.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

C ,  July  22,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mr.  Waldron : — 

It  is  true,  as  you  say,  that  our  ways'  have  been  strangely 
brought  together.     I  have  even  sometimes  wondered  what  the  end 


134  LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE 

of  it  all  might  be,  although  I  have  not  dared  to  cherish  any 
definite  thought  on  the  subject.  Through  our  acquaintance,  I 
have  learned  gradually  and  unconsciously  to  trust  you  and  depend 
upon  your  judgment  in  many  little  matters,  and  find  pleasure  and 
comfort  in  your  society.  Your  letter  has  touched  a  responsive 
chord,  and  my  heart  urges  me  to  yield  to  your  desire.  And  yet, 
I  know  not.  Let  us  see'each  other,  let  us  talk  the  matter  over 
together. 

Yours  sincerely, 

MARGARET  LOTHROP. 


192.  Marriage  Proposal  to  a  Wealthy  Widow. 

H ,  November  13,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Taylor:— 

If  I  were  to  state  that  I  have  long  admired  you,  that  would 
be  simply  telling  what  you  already  know;  but  hitherto  I  have 
felt  a  reluctance  to  express  my  warm  feelings  of  regard  towards 
you,  lest  I  should  be  accused  of  mercenary  motives,  owing  to  the 
difference  that  exists  in  our  fortunes,  you  having  wealth  at  your 
command,  while  I  am  in  very  moderate  circumstances.  Your 
manner  of  late  has  been  so  kind — dare  I  say,  encouraging? — that 
it  seems  to  me  that  I  should  be  wronging  your  generous  nature,  if 
any  false  pride  on  my  part  were  allowed  to  stand  between  me  and 
my  hopes.  Dear  Mrs.  Taylor,  will  you  accept  the  devotion  of 
my  life,  and  let  it  be  my  one  aim  to  make  you  happy?  If  sin- 
cere affection  can  do  this,  it  is  yours  to  command. 

I  shall  see  you  this  evening,  but  let  me  have  one  line  if  possible 
before  them       In  the  meantime. 
I  remain, 

Devotedly  yours, 

ALBERT  S.  ORMSBY. 


193.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Favorable). 

H ,  November  14,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Ormsby: — 

You  are  certainly  not  fair  to  yourself  and  to  me  when  you 
write  that  I  could  for  a  moment  believe  you  capable  of  unworthy 
motives  or  that  you  would  feign  a  love  not  sincerely  felt.  I  have 
too  high  an  opinion  of  you  and  of  your  principles  to  be  otherwise 
than  flattered  by  your  preference.  After  this  frank  confession 


LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE  135 

of  regard  for  me,  I  will  not  hesitate  to  say  that  I  feel  well  inclined 
towards  you,  so  well  indeed,  that  I  may  bid  you  hope ;  you  must 
not  be  too  impatient,  but  give  me  time  to  be  certain  that  in  mar- 
rying you  I  should  be  consulting  my  own  happiness  as  well  as 
yours.  Nothing  more  can  be  said  at 'present.  Believe  me, 
Yours  very  sincerely, 

FRANCES  STONE  TAYLOR. 


194.  Answer  to  No.  192  (Unfavorable). 

H ,  November  14,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Ormsby: — 

I  have  certainly  no  reason  to  suspect  that  your  professions 
of  affection  for  myself  are  dictated  from  mercenary  motives,  and 
while  declining  your  proposal  I  render  full  justice  to  your  high 
principles;  but  I  have  no  other  feeling  for  you  than  that  of  mere 
friendship,  and  if  anything  in  my  manner  has  led  you  to  think 
otherwise,  I  can  only  express  my  sincere  regrets,  and  assure  you 
that  it  was  quite  unintentional  on  my  part. 
I  remain,  dear  Mr.  Ormsby, 

Truly  yours, 

FRANCES  STONB  TAYLOR. 


195.  Marriage  Proposal  from  a  Widower  to  a  Young  Lady. 

I ,  September  12,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Miss  Cummings:  — 

Will  you  allow  me  to  ask  you  a  very  serious  question  which 
nearly  concerns  my  happiness,  trusting  you  will  be  able  to  grant 
me  a  favorable  answer?  From  what  I  have  seen  of  your  amiable 
disposition  and  gentleness,  I  feel  sure  that  you  would  make  me  a 
sweet^and^loving  wife  and  companion  Will  you  consent  to  this, 
and  be  the  mother  of  my  darling  children?  They  are  so  young 
that  at  present  they  have  hardly  realized  their  loss.  They  have 
already  learned  to  love  you,  and  it  is  in  your  power  to  fill  up  the 
void  that  now  exists  both  in  my  heartland  home. 

It  is  now  two  years  since  I  suffered  a  loss  which  was  then 
thought  irreparable,  but  since  we  became  acquainted,  I  have  felt 


IS  LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE 

that  there  was  yet  happiness  in  store  for  me,  if  you  would  accept 
my  love,  none  the  less  sincere  because  I  have  loved  before,  and 
mourned  so  deeply.  Do  not  hesitate  to  tell  me  frankly  whether 
the  interest  I  have  awakened  in  your  heart  is  a  feeling  of  regard 
for  myself  or  merely  one  of  compassion  for  my  lonely  condition. 
One  word  as  regards  my  circumstances.  Have  a  fairly  good  in- 
come, but  this  is  a  matter  for  your  father's  consideration,  and  I 
can  satisfy  him  on  this  point.  Shall  I  call  and  receive  your  an- 
swer to-morrow  from  yourself,  or  will  you  write  to  me?  Perhaps 
the  latter  would  be  best. 
Believe  me,  dear  Miss  Cummings, 

Yours  very  faithfully, 

ADRIAN  SOMMERS. 


196.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Favorable). 

S ,  September  13,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Sommers : — 

Yes,  it  is  true  that  I  feel  deeply  interested  in  you  and  in 
your  sweet  children.  I  have  felt  so  sorry  for  you  and  for  them. 
Do  you  really  think  I  could  be  to  you  all  you  say  and  replace  the 
one  you  have  lost?  I  should  not  be  afraid  to  undertake  the, 
responsibility  of  being  a  mother  to  your  little  pets,  if  certain  that 
it  would  be  for  your  happiness ;  mine  I  am  sure  would  be  secured 
by  such  a  marriage,  and  I  do  not  hesitate  to  say  that  I  will  be  to 
you  everything  you  wish.  So  far,  I  have  not  spoken  to  my  father 
about  the  matter,  and  would  rather  leave  it  to  you  to  do  so ;  he 
regards  you  so  highly  that  you  may  feel  sure  of  a  welcome. 
Believe  me,  dear  Mr.  Sommers, 

Yours  very  sincerely, 

SELMA  CUMMINGS. 


197.  Answer  to  No.  195  (Unfavorable). 

S ,  September  13,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Sommers : — 

It  is  a  matter  of  much  regret  to  me  that  the  friendly  interest 
I  have  taken  in  you  and  your  dear  little  children  should  have  led 
you  to  imagine  that  I  entertained  towards  you  a  warmer  feeling 
than  that  of  friendship ;  perhaps  it  would  be  kinder  to  tell  yo*  at 


LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE  137 

once  that  my  affections  are  already  engaged,  although  there  is  no 
immediate  prospect  of  my  marriage,  and  the  engagement  is  at 
present  only  known  to  the  members  of  my  family.  My  heart 
being  devoted  to  another,  I  felt  at  liberty  to  manifest  an  almost 
sisterly  liking  for  you,  in  my  endeavor  to  cheer  you  and  lighten 
your  sorrow.  I  am  deeply  grieved  to  have  unintentionally  misled 
you  into  thinking  I  cared  for  you  in  the  way  you  wish. 

Now  that  you  know  the  reason  why  I  cannot  return  your  affec- 
tion, you  will  not  think  I  am  to  blame,  and  allow  me  to  regard 
you  as  one  of  my  greatest  friends. 

Pray  believe  me,  dear  Mr.  Sommers,  with  kindest  wishes  for 
your  happiness, 

Yours  very  truly, 

SELMA  CUMMINGS. 


198.  Marriage  Proposal  to  a  Young  Lady,  from  a  Widower 
with  Grown-up  Daughters. 

S ,  July  10,  19—. 

Dear  Miss  Denslow: — 

I  truly  believe  you  must  have  realized,  for  some  time,  how 
macn  pleasure  I  take  in  your  society,  how  greatly  I  have  been 
attracted  by  your  many  charms,  and  how  deeply  I  admire  all 
your  amiable  qualities.  I  am  only  one  of  the  many  who  have 
already  told  you  this,  but  still  venture  to  hope  that  I  am  not 
altogether  indifferent  to  you.  Your  friends  will  perhaps  tell  you 
that  I  am  old  enough  to  be  your  father,  and  that  a  man  with 
grown-up  daughters  ought  not  to  think  of  making  so  young  a  girl 
his  wife,  but  in  spite  of  my  being  well  over  forty,  my  sympathies 
and  affections  are  as  keen  as  if  I  were  twenty  years  younger,  and 
if  you  will  accept  me,  it  shall  be  the  study  of  my  life  to  make  you 
happy.  You  would  be  a  sister  and  companion  to  my  girls,  and  to 
myself  the  most  beloved  of  wives.  Will  not  press  you  to  give  me 
an  answer  at  once ;  take  time  to  consider  if  you  think  it  would  be 
for  your  happiness  to  link  your  fate  with  mine.  How  grateful 
I  should  be  if  you  decide  in  my  favor!  Believe  me  in  the 
meantime, 

Very  faithfully  yours, 
t  HENRY  B.  LOWELL. 


138  LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE 

199.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Favorable). 

F ,  July  13,  19—. 

Dear  Mr.  Lowell: — 

I  have  thought  for  some  time  over  the  contents  of  your  kind 
letter,  that  I  might  be  quite  sure  I  was  taking  a  wise  decision. 
It  is  not  the  difference  of  age  between  us  that  has  made  me  a 
little  doubtful  as  to  what  would  be  my  welcome  in  your  family ;  but 
whether  my  coming  amongst  you  in  this  position  would  not  make 
things  unpleasant  for  you  as  well  as  for  myself.  Your  daughters 
are  great  friends  of  mine,  it  is  true,  but  would  they  not  feel 
aggrieved  at  my  being  the  mistress  of  a  house  over  which  they 
have  themselves  had  sole  control?  However,  I  am  perhaps  too 
sensitive  in  this  matter,  and  it  should  be  wrong  to  sacrifice  your 
happiness  and  my  own  to  an  idea  which  perhaps  is  unfounded. 
Enough  has  been  said  for  you  to  understand  the  feelings  with 
which  I  regard  you,  and  if,  after  reading  this  letter,  you  still 
think  I  could  make  you  happy,  I  will  offer  no  further  objections 
to  your  wishes. 

Believe  me,  dear  Mr.  Lowell, 

Very  truly  yours, 

IRMA  DKNSLOW. 


200.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Unfavorable). 

F ,  July  12,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Lowell : — 

Much  as  I  like  and  esteem  you,  I  nevertheless  shrink  from 
the  responsibility  of  the  position  you  offer  me.  Such  a  step 
would  be  neither  for  your  happiness  nor  for  mine.  Your  daugh- 
ters would  very  naturally  regard  me  as  an  intruder,  and  would 
feel  very  pained  at  your  marrying  a  girl  as  young  as  themselves. 
I  am  quite  serious  in  what  I  say,  and  am  not  at  all  likely  to  think 
differently;  let  us  therefore  hope  that  you  will  soon  view  my 
decision  in  the  same  light,  that  is  to  say,  as  the  only  fitting  one 
under  the  circumstances. 

With  all  good  wishes, 

Yours  very  truly, 

IRMA  DENSLOW. 


LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE  139 

201.  Marriage  Proposal  to  an  Heiress. 

M ,  September  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Miss  Simpson: — 

Ever  since  I  have  had  the  happiness  of  visiting  you,  on  a 
friendly  basis,  the  one  wish  of  my  heart  has  been  to  become 
worthy  of  you,  and  to  succeed  in  winning  your  affections.  I 
know  that  you  have  many  admirers,  but  none,  believe  me,  more 
devoted  than  myself.  Of  course,  I  have,  the  disadvantage,  in  the 
eyes  of  your  friends  of  being  poor  and  they  may  endeavor  to  make 
you  believe  that  it  is  the  heiress  I  love ;  but  do  not  think  so  badly  of 
me,  dear  Miss  Simpson,  as  to  entertain  so  cruel  a  suspicion  of  one 
who,  if  you  were  penniless,  would  be  proud  to  prove  his  devotion 
to  you.  It  is  idle  to  distress  you  and  myself  with  such  doubts;  let 
me  rather  assure  you  of  my  unchanging  love,  and  of  my  con- 
fidence that,  with  youth  and  hope  in  my  favor,  I  have  a  bright 
career  opening  before  me.  For  the  fulfillment  of  my  wishes,  I 
should  be  content  to  wait  any  time  that  you  and  your  friends 
might  consider  expedient,  provided  you  gave  me  the  assurance 
that  you  returned  my  affection,  and  would  lighten  my  probation 
by  your  sympathy  and  encouragement. 

I  have  but  inadequately  expressed  what  was  uppermost  in  my 
heart,  but  you  will,  I  am  sure,  give  me  credit  for  all  that  was  left 
unsaid. 

With  sincere  regards, 
Believe  me, 

Yours  very  truly, 

HAROLD  CANE. 


202.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Favorable). 

H ,  September  n,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Cane: — 

Your  letter,  so  tender  and  straightforward,  made  me  both 
happy  and  unhappy ;  happy  in  knowing  that  you  love  me,  and 
unhappy  at  the  opposition  which  I  fear  awaits  us  both  at  the 
hands  of  my  uncle  and  guardian.  It  will  be  very  difficult  to 
make  him  believe  in  your  disinterested  affection,  and  even  more 
so  to  gain  his  consent  to  our  engagement ;  from  the  few  words  he 
said  to  me  on  the  subject,  I  know  he  holds  very  strong  opinions 
against  my  marrying  any  one  who  has  not  some  means  of  his 
own.  I  need  not  tell  you  that  his  views  are  not  mine  in  the 


140  LOVE    AND    MARRIAGE 

least;  P  am  only  too  glad  to  be  rich  for  your  sake,  but  we  must 
both  be  brave,  and   trust  in  the  future.      You  must  not  take 
umbrage  at  anything  my  uncle  may  say  to  you,   and  I  will 
endeavor  to  make  amends  for  any  harshness  on  his  part  you  may 
have  to  endure,  by  showing  you  how  much  I  value  your  love. 
With  kindest  wishes,  but  with  rather  a  sinking  heart, 
Believe  me, 

Yours  affectionately, 

MARY  SIMPSON. 


203.  Answer  to  No.  201  (Unfavorable). 

H ,  September  n,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Cane:— 

While  I  am  much  flattered  by  the  favorable  impression  I 
seem  to  have  made'  upon  you,  I  have  never  thought  of  you  as  a 
possible  husband,  although  as  an  agreeable  partner  at  a  ball  I 
like  you  very  much.  To  speak  frankly,  I  am  certain  never  to 
care  for  you  save  as  an  acquaintance.  I  am  afraid,  in  spite  of 
your  disclaimer  to  the  contrary,  that  were  it  not  for  the  accident 
of  my  prospective  wealth*  you  would  not  have  thought  of  propos- 
ing to  me;  but  be  this  as  it  may,  it  would  not  influence  the 
answer  I  have  to  give  you,  and  it  is  kindest  and  best  to  tell  at 
once,  that  there  is  no  hope  of  my  changing  my  feelings  toward 
you. 

Thanking  you  for  the  honor  thus  done  me, 
I  remain, 

Yours  truly, 

MARY  SIMPSON. 


CHAPTER    II 

TO     AND     FROM     PARENTS,    GUARDIANS,   FRIENDS, 
ETC.,    IN   REFERENCE   TO   MARRIAGE  MATTERS 

204.  Asking  a  Father  for  His  Daughter's  Hand. 

N ,  February  19,  19 — . 

Edward  T.  Jones,  Esq. 
DEAR  SIR: — 

I  wish  to  write  to  you  upon  a  matter  in  which  the 
happiness  of  my  life  is  concerned.  I  have  long  admired  your 
second  daughter,  Miss  Helen  Jones,  and  trust  I  am  not  mistaken 
in  thinking  that  she  is  not  indifferent  to  me ;  indeed,  I  am  con- 
fident that,  with  your  permission  to  do  so,  I  could  succeed  in 
winning  her  affections ;  but  I  hesitate  to  say  a  word  to  her  on 
this  subject  until  assured  of  your  sanction  to  address  her.  I 
have  even  delayed  asking  for  your  consent  to  be  accepted  as  a 
suitor  for  your  daughter's  hand,  fearing  that  you  might  consider 
my  prospects  hardly  justify  me  in  taking  such  a  step ;  but  I  can 
wait  no  longer  to  declare  my  sentiments,  and  to  learn  what 
chance  there  may  be  for  me. 

My  salary  and  income  together  do  not  amount  to  more  than 
$1,800  a  year,  but  with  what  you  may  be  inclined  to  give  your 
daughter,  should  her  marriage  meet  with  your  approval,  I  have 
no  doubt  that  with  'prudence  and  economy  I  might  be  able  to 
make  a  comfortable  home  for  her. 

Hoping  you  will  give  this  letter  your^favorable  consideration, 
Believe  me 

Respectfully  yours, 

HENRY  LLOYD. 


205.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Favorable). 

N ,  February  21,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mr.  Lloyd: — 

I  must  say  that  I  do  not  altogether  approve  of  early  mar 
riages,  or  think  it  right  that  a  young  man  should  rely  upon  other 

141 


142        REFERENCE  TO  MARRIAGE  MATTERS 

than  his  own  resources  when  he  contemplates  maintaining  a  wife. 
However,  as  my  daughter's  happiness  is  my  first  consideration, 
and  as  I  find  on  questioning  her  that  she  is  evidently  attached  to 
you,  I  shall  not  oppose  your  engagement,  and  will  do  what  I  can 
to  enable  you  to  marry;  but,  in  justice  to  my  other  children, 
cannot  promise  to  do  much,  and  $1500  a  year  is  the  utmost  allow- 
ance I  can  make  her.  Shall  further  expect  you  both  to  wait 
at  least  six  months,  which  at  your  time  of  life  ought  to  be  and 
indeed  is  no  hardship ;  anyway,  this  is  the  decision  I  have  arrived 
at  after  mature  deliberation. 
I  remain, 

Yours  respectfully, 

EDWARD  T.  JONES. 


206.  Answer  to  No.  204  (Unfavorable), 

N ,  February  20,  19—. 

Henry  Lloyd,  Esq. 
DEAR  SIR:— 

The  only  part  of  your  letter  which  afforded  me  any 
satisfaction  is  that  wherein  you  say  you  have  not  spoken  to  my 
daughter  regarding  your  hopes.  I  may  as  well  inform  you  that  I 
am  not  prepared  to  make  her  any  allowance  on  her  marriage. 
What  she  will  receive  from  me  at  my  death  is  a  question  for  my 
future  consideration.  I  do  not  Intend  her  to  marry  a  man  who 
cannot  support  her  without  coming  to  her  father  for  help,  and 
you  will  distinctly  understand  that  I  beg  to  decline  your  proposal 
for  her  hand. 

Yours  obediently, 

EDWARD  T.  JONES. 


207.  Another  Request  to  a  Father  for  His  Daughter's  Hand. 

R ,  May  24,  19 — . 

Arthur  Brown,  Esq. 
DEAR  SIR:— 

My  frequent  calls  at  your  hospitable  home  during  the 
last  three  months  have  doubtless  prepared  you,  to  some  extent  at 
least,  for  the  request  I  am  about  to  make.  It  was  my  good  for- 


REFERENCE  TO  MARRIAGE  MATTERS         143 

tune  to  meet  your  daughter  Ada,  last  Christmas  eve,  at  the  house 
of  a  mutual  friend.  Since  that  time,  many  opportunities  of  renew- 
ing an  acquaintance  so  pleasantly  begun  have  presented  them- 
selves, of  which  I  have  been  delighted  to  avail  myself. 

The  result  of  these  happy  interviews  is  that  admiration  and 
esteem  have  ripened  into  love,  and  I  now  ask  your  kind  consent 
to  be  a  suitor  for  your  daughter's  hand.  I  have  not  taken  this 
step  without  some  reasonable  ground  for  hoping  that  such  a  suit 
would  at  least  be  seriously  entertained.  But  I  have  been  trained 
to  regard  the  rights  of  parents  with  such  respect,  that  it  would 
add  largely  to  my  delight  in  this  important  step  of  life  if  I  might 
count  on  your  hearty  consent.  You  have  known  my  family  for 
years,  and  on  ".that  ground,  am  proud  to  feel  assured  that  there 
will  be  no  difficulty  whatever.  My  business  position  and  pros- 
pects are  such  as  to  assure  all  the  joys  and  comforts  of  a  happy 
home,  should  your  daughter  do  me  the  honor  to  share  my  lot. 
This  matter  I  should  be  glad  to  explain  more  in  detail  if  you 
so  desire,  and  to  submit  a  complete  statement  of  my  net  assets 
and  future  resources. 

With  sincere  thanks  to  Mrs.  Brown  and  yourself,  and  to  all  the 
members  of  your  household,  for  the  many  kindnesses  received, 
I  am,  dear  sir, 

Yours  very  respectfully, 

ALFRED  D.  JONES. 


2080  Answer  to  the  Above. 

R ,  May  27,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mr.  Jones: — 

Your  letter  has  not  greatly  surprised  me.  With  the  spirit 
of  it  I  am  much  pleased.  Such  an  important  step  in  life  as  you 
contemplate  should  always  be  taken  thoughtfully,  and  the  hearty 
consent  of  the  interested  families  is,  in  my  judgment,  greatly  to 
be  desired.  So  far  as  my  daughter  Ada  is  concerned,  my  one 
great  desire  for  her  is  that  her  life  may  be  as  peaceful  and  happy 
in  the  future  as  it  has  been  in  the  past.  You  have  my  consent  to 
woo,  and  if  wooing  you  should  win,  you  will  win  a  treasure.  I 
pray  God  willjguide  all  for  the  best. 

Yours  very  truly, 

ARTHUR  BROWN. 


!44        REFERENCE  TO  MARRIAGE  MATTERS 

209.  Asking  a  Father  for  His  Approval  of  the  Writer's  En- 
gagement with  His  Daughter. 

C ,  June  3,  19—. 

Henry  Longstreet,  Esq. 
DEAR  SIR:— 

I  have  been  fortunate  enough  to  gain  your  daughter's 
affections,  and,  having  spoken  to  her  on  the  subject  of  my  hopes 
yesterday,  I  hasten  to  ask  for  your  consent  to  our  engagement, 
trusting  earnestly  that  you  will  not  withhold  it.  My  constant 
endeavor  will  be  to  make  her  happy,  and  to  prove  myself  worthy 
of  her  choice.  Before  saying  a  word  to  her,  I  talked  the  matter 
over  with  my  father,  and  he  has  promised  to  do  all  he  can  to 
further  my  wishes,  and  says  he  will  allow  me  $1,000  a  year  from 
October  next,  in  addition  to  the  salary  I  now  receive,  and  which 
amounts  to  83,000.  Your  daughter  fully  understands  my  position, 
and  is  quite  willing  to  accept  the  home  I  can  offer  her,  subject  to 
your  approval. 

Believe  me, 

Respectfully  yours, 

EDWARD  KEANE. 


210.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Favorable). 

E ,  June  5,  19—. 

My  Dear  Mr.  Keane:— 

If  I  feel  absolutely  certain  that  my  daughter's  happiness  is 
concerned  in  obtaining  my  consent  to  her  engagement  with  you, 
I  will  offer  no  opposition  to  it,  and  shall  be  glad  to  receive  you  at 
our  house  as  her  accepted  lover.  I  sincerely  believe  that  you 
will,  as  you  say,  make  her  a  good  husband.  Will  endeavor  to 
see  your  father  in  a  day  or  two,  and  explain  to  him  what  I  can 
afford  to  do  for  my  daughter. 

Faithfully  yours, 

HENRY  LONGSTREET. 


REFERENCE    TO    MARRIAGE    MATTERS  145 

21  x.  Answer  to  No.  209  (Unfavorable). 

E ,  June  5,  19—. 

dmund  Keane,  Esq. 
DEAR  SIR:— 

It  is  my  firm  opinion  that  you  have  been  premature 
in  speaking  to  my  daughter  as  you  have  done,  without  previously 
learning  my  wishes  on  the  subject.  I  am  very  much  displeased 
with  her  for  giving  you  any  encouragement,  as  she  fully  under- 
stood that  it  would  be  contrary  to  my  views  were  she  to  do  so ; 
however,  it  obliges  me  to  tell  you  distinctly  that  I  decline  to  give 
my  consent  to  any  engagement  between  you,  and  am  not  likely 
to  alter  this  determination. 

Yours  obediently, 

HENRY  LONGSTREET. 


2x2.  From  a  Gentleman,  asking  for  His  Father's  Approval  to 
His  Recent  Engagement. 

L ,  August  10,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Father:— 

I  am  not  sure  that  you  will  be  fully  pleased  with  the  con- 
tents of  this  letter.  I  write  to  ask  your  consent  to  my  marriage 
with  Miss  Ethel  Blake.  I  anticipate  all  your  objections,  but 
hope  your  affection  for  Lie  will  induce  you  to  waive  them,  and 
that  my  dear  mother  will  use  all  her  influence  with  you  in  my 
behalf.  Need  not  tell  you  how  good  and  amiable  and  charming 
Miss  Blake  is;  you  have  seen  enough  of  her  in  social  circles, 

in  C ,  to  appreciate  her  many  lovable  qualities.     She  will 

make  the  best  of  wives,  and  your  and  my  dear  mother's  con- 
sent is  all  I  want  to  complete  my  happiness. 
Believe  me,  my  dear  father. 

Your  affectionate  son, 
LEWIS. 

213.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

h  My  Dear  Lewis: — 

B ,  August  4,  19 — . 

In  answer  to  your  rather  startling  communication,  must 
state  at  once  that  it  is  quite  out  of  the  question  that  I  should 
countenance  your  engagement  with  Miss  Ethel  Blake.  Have  no 
doubt  that  she  is  all  you  say,  and  what  I  have  seen  of  her  is  quite 


146  REFERENCE    TO    MARRIAGE   MATTERS 

in  her  favor,  but  you  must  be  reminded  that  you  are  not  in  a  posi- 
tion to  maintain  a  wife ;  you  have  your  own  way  to  make  in  the 
world,  and  have  no  right  to  suppose  that  I  can  allow  you  sufficient 
income  to  marry  upon.  I  should  be  unjust  to  your  brothers  and 
sisters  were  I  to  decide  otherwise ;  and  I  beg  you  to  understand 
that  you  have  nothing  to  expect  from  me  if  you  persist  in  your 
imprudence,  which  can  only  be  regarded  as  a  boyish  infatuation. 
Your  mother  sends  her  love,  and  says  she  is  sure  you  will  not  be 
so  rash  and  foolish  as  to  act  contrary  to  my  wishes. 
Believe  me,  my  dear  boy, 

Your  true  friend  and  affectionate 

FATHER. 


214.  From  a  Young  Lady  to  Her  Guardian,  asking  for  His 
Approval  of  Her  Recent  Engagement. 

C ,  January  17,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Andrews:—     % 

Since  you  called  last,  I  have  received  a  proposal  of  marriage 
from  Mr.  Phillip  Thompson,  with  whom  you  are  slightly 
acquainted.  He  is  very  much  attached  to  me,  and  I  have  a  great 
esteem  and  regard  for  him ;  so  much  so,  that  I  have  told  him  I 
would  endeavor  to  obtain  your  consent  to  our  engagement,  and  I 
trust  you  will  see  no  reason  for  withholding  it.  Mr.  Thompson 
says  he  would  be  very  pleased  to  explain  his  position  and  pros- 
pects fully  to  you  if  you  allow  him  the  opportunity,  and  he  hopes 
that  you  will  find  both  satisfactory.  I  thoroughly  understand 
the  importance  of  the  step  I  wish  to  take,  but  as  my  future  happi- 
ness is  so  deeply  concerned  in  this  matter,  my  earnest  wish  is 
that  you  will  return  a  favorable  answer. 
With  all  kind  regards,  believe  me, 

Dear  Mr.  Andrews, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

GERTRUDE  MAYWOOD. 


REFERENCE    TO    MARRIAGE    MATTERS  147 

215.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

S ,  January  10,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Miss  Maywood: — 

I  am  going  to  disappoint  you  greatly  by  stating  that 
Mr.  Phillip  Thompson  would  not  be  a  desirable  husband  for 
you.  Am  sorry  that  you  should  have  allowed  matters  to  go  as 
far  as  they  have,  as  I  understand  from  your  letter  that  you 
almost  accepted  him.  However,  I  have  your  interest  too  much 
at  heart  to  give  myg  consent  to  a  marriage  which  would  not 
ultimately  be  for  your  happiness,  and  you  are  possessed  of  too 
much  good  sense  to  act  contrary  to  my  opinion.  In  my  responsi- 
ble position  as  your  guardian,  I  must  advise  you  to  the  best  of  my 
judgment  in  what  affects  your  welfare ;  and,  disagreeable  as  it  is 
to  me  to  oppose  your  wishes,  I  feel  it  my  duty  to  give  you  my  firm 
opinion  on  this  serious  subject 

If  you  desire  it,  I  will  myself  communicate  with  Mr.  Thompson. 
Believe  me,  as  ever,  dear  Miss  Maywood, 

Your  sincere  friend  and  guardian, 

,  ALFRED  B.  ANDREWS. 


216.  From  a  Father  to  a  Gentleman  who   has  paid  Marked 

Attentions  to  His  Daughter  Requesting  to  Know 

His  Intentions. 

G ,  April  17,  19—. 

DEAR  SIR: — 

I  consider  it  my  duty  to  ask  you  frankly  what  are  your 
intentions  towards  my  daughter.  Your  manner  toward  her  has 
evidently  awakened  a  deep  interest  in  her  affectionate  heart.  She 
has  been  too  well  brought  up  to  think  of  bestowing  her  love  where 
it  was  not  properly  and  fully  appreciated  and  returned,  and  I  can- 
not allow  her  happiness  to  be  trifled  with ;  therefore  hope  that  you 
will  see  the  propriety  of  at  once  putting  an  end  to  a  position 
embarrassing  to  her  as  it  is  painful  to  me. 

Awaiting  your  answer,  believe  me, 

Yours  very  truly, 

ADOLPHUS  REDDING. 


148  REFERENCE    TO    MARRIAGE    MATTERS 

217.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

G ,  April  19,  19—. 

DEAR  SIR:— 

I  was  greatly  surprised  at  the  receipt  of  your  letter,  and  can 
only  hope  you  are  mistaken  in  supposing  your  daughter  to  be 
interested  in  me.  I  flatter  myself  that  she  regards  me  as  a  friend, 
and  as  such  have  a  sincere  admiration  and  esteem  for  her ;  but 
it  is  my  duty  to  say  that  I  entertain  no  feeling  of  love  towards 
her,  and  that  I  have  only  paid  her  such  attentions  as  are  due  from 
a  gentleman  to  a  lady  in  whose  society  he  is  frequently  thrown. 
Under  these  circumstances,  I  conclude  you  would  wish  me  to 
discontinue  my  visits  at  your  house  and  I  shall  do  so  with  much 
regret.  With  the  kindest  remembrance  of  the  hospitality  I  .have 
there  received  and  with  compliments  to  Mrs.  Redding, 

Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours. 

ALFRED  S.  BAKER. 


218.  From  a  Father  to  a  Gentleman,  forbidding  Him  to  Pay 
any  further  Attentions  to  His  Daughter. 

C ,  January  10,  19 — . 

DEAR  SIR:— 

Permit  me  to  say  that  your  attentions  to  my  daughter  have 
become  so  marked  of  late,  that  I  wish  them  discontinued.  I 
do  not  approve  of  you  as  a  suitor  for  her  hand,  simply  on  the 
ground  of  your  pecuniary  position;  and  consider  that  you  have 
not  been  acting  fairly  in  endeavoring  to  gain  her  affections, 
not  being  in  a  position  to  make  a  comfortable  home  for  her. 
I  have  my  daughter's  promise  that  she  will  neither  write  to  you 
nor  see  you  without  my  consent.  Relying  upon  your  honor  to 
respect  my  wishes,  and  not  to  attempt  any  further  communica- 
tion with  her. 

I  remain, 

Yours  truly, 

THOMAS  D.  CURRAN. 


REFERENCE  TO  MARRIAGE  MATTERS        149 

2x9.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

C ,  January  n,  19 — . 

DEAR  SIR:— 

I  felt  much  pained' surprise  when  reading  your  letter,  just 
delivered,  as  from  the  encouragement  I  have  received  to  visit  at 
your  house  and  from  the  manner  in  which  I  have  been  allowed  to 
devote  myself  to  your  daughter  in  public,  at  balls  and  parties  and 
in  society  generally,  I  was  under  the  impression  that  Mrs.  Curran 
and  yourself  tacitly  approved  of  my  attentions  to  her. 

It  would  have  been  kinder  had  you  thought  proper  to  signify 
your  disapproval  six  months  ago,  as  my  conduct  must  have  been 
as  patent  to  you  as  to  every  one  else.  However,  as  your  daughter 
acquiesces  in  your  views,  I  have  nothing  more  to  add  beyond  this, 
that  I  will  respect  yourjjwishes,  and'beg  to  remain, 

Yours  faithfully, 

ARTHUR  HATFIELD. 


220.  From  the  Father  of  a  Young  Lady  to  the  Father  of  a 

Young  Gentleman,  disapproving  of  the  latter's 

Attentions  to  Writer's  Daughter. 

P ,  June  14,  19— 

DEAR  SIR:— 

I  am  sorry  to  have  to  write  to  you  on  a  somewhat  delicate 
subject ;  the  fact  is,  your  son  has  been  paying  my  daughter  Alice 
considerably  more  attention  than  I  think  desirable,  and  a  word 
from  you  would  no  doubt  put  a  stop  to  the  matter.  He  has 
been  on  such  a  friendly  footing  with  my  family  that  I  did  not 
apprehend  that  anything  like  a  serious  attachment  was  likely  to 
spring  up  between  your  son  and  either  of  my  daughters ;  however, 
from  what  I  gather,  such  is  the  case. 

I  am  sure  you  will  agree  with  me  that  a  marriage  between  my 
daughter  Alice  and  your  boy  would  be  most  imprudent,  if  not 
altogether  impossible.  I  take  for  granted  that  he  cannot  look  to 
you  for  an  allowance  upon]  which  to  support  a  wife,  while  I  am 
certainly  not  in  a  position  to  do  anything  for  my  daughter;  under 
these  circumstances,  perhaps  the  best  thing  would  be  for  the 
young  people  to  discontinue  meeting  for  the  present. 


150  REFERENCE    TO    MARRIAGE   MATTERS 

Were  your  son  of  age,  I  should  take  a  different  course  with  him ; 
as  it  is,  I  leave  it  to  you  to  bring  him  to  reason;  should  he  be  so 
foolish  as  to  persist,  I  shall  make  it  a  point  that  my  daughter 
understands  that  she  is  not  to  encourage  him  in  his  attentions. 
Counting  upon  your  kind  and  wise  consideration  of  the  matter, 
I  remain. 

Yours  faithfully, 

WALTER  HUBBARD. 


221.  From   a   Mother  Announcing  her   Daughter's   Engage- 
ment. 

T ,  May  22,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Winslow : — 

I  feel  certain  you  will  be  pleased  to  hear  that  darling  Mary 
is  engaged  to  be  married  to  Mr.  Sanford ;  he  is  the  son  of  a  very 
old  friend  of  ours,  and  everything  we  could  wish  as  a  son-in-law. 
It  is  delightful  to  see  how  happy  the  young  people  are  in  each 
other's  society ;  he  is  as  devoted  to  her  as  she  is  fond  of  him. 
Had  it  not  been  so,  in  spite  of  our  liking  the  young  man  so  much, 
I  doubt  if  we  should  have  given  our  consent,  as  at  present  his 
prospects  are  not  very  good,  and  they  will  have  to  wait  till  next 
year  before  thinking  of  being  married :  thus  you  see  it  is  not  yet  a 
matter  for  congratulations,  but  I  did  not  wish  you  to  .hear  the 
news  from  any  one  but  me. 

Believe  me,  dear  Mrs.  Winslow,  with  kind  regards  from  my  hus- 
band and  myself, 

Very  sincere!  y'yours, 

HARRIET  SANDERSON. 


222.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

B ,  June  i*  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Sanderson : — 

We  are  'all  delighted  to  hear^of  [your  daughter's]' engage- 
ment and  [sincerely  wish  her  every  happiness ;  please  tell  her  so 
with  my  love.  It  must  be  a  "great  source  of  pleasure  to  you  to 
know  that  she  is  going  to  make  so  satisfactory  a  marriage,  one  of 
which  you  and  her  father  so  highly  approve.  I  shall  hope  to 


REFERENCE    TO    MARRIAGE    MATTERS  151 

become  acquainted  with  your  future  son-in-law  at  an  early  oppor- 
tunity, and  you  must  tell  me  when  the  wedding  is  to  take  place, 
as  should  I  not  be  in  town  at  that  time,  I  might  yet  embody  my 
good  wishes  in  the  form  of  a  suitable  souvenir. 
.     With  kind  remembrances  to  all, 

Sincerely  yours, 

MARGARET  DEAN  WINSLOW. 


223.  From  a  Young  Lady  to  a  Girl  Friend,  Announcing  Her 
Engagement. 

T ,  May;22,  19-. 

My  Dearest  Girl:— 

I  know  you'll  be  delighted  to  hear  the  good  news  I  have  to 
tell  you  about  myself:  I  am  engaged  to  be  married  to  Mr.  Edward 
Lloyd,  whom  I  mentioned  so  often  lately  in  my  letters  to  you.  I 
was  not  very  much  surprised  at  his  proposing,  as  I  fancied  he  liked 
me,  from  his  constant  attentions.  You  can  imagine  how  happy  I 
am ;  he  is  everything  one  would  wish  one's  lover  to  be.  I  am  sure 
you  will  think  he  is  handsome.  I  do,  of  course,  and  every  one 
says  he  is  very  clever.  He  is  five  years  older  than  I  am,  which 
mamma  thinks  is  an  advantage.  I  hope  you  will  be  one  of  my 
bridesmaids,  dear  Madge ;  we  are  to  be  married  very  soon.  He 
has  taken  a  nice  house,  and  you  must  be  one  of  our  first  visitors. 
Papa  and 'mamma  are  delighted  at  my  prospects,  and  ^think 
Edward  will  make  me  the  best  of  husbands. 
With  warmest  love,  believe  me, 

Your  ever  affectionate, 

FANNY  SANDERSON. 


224.  From  a  Young  Lady,  Congratulating  a  Girl  Friend  on 
Her  Engagement. 

H ,  June  3,  19—. 

My  Dear  Fanny:— 

How  pleased  I  was  to  hear  of  your  engagement.  I  want 
to  be  among  the  first  to  offer  you  the  warmest  congratulations. 
Do  tell  me  a  good  deal  more  about  your  fiance,  and  whether  it 
is  to  be  a  long  engagement.  I  need  not  ask  if  you  are  very  happy, 


152  REFERENCE    TO    MARRIAGE    MATTERS 

as  I  am  sure  you  would  not  have  accepted  any  one  to  whom  you 
were  not  sincerely  attached.  You  will  doubtless  have^  to  answer 
a  great  many  letters  from  friends  and  relatives,  all  desirous  of 
wishing  you  joy,  but  still  I  hope  you  will  find  time  to  write  me  a 
few  lines  soon. 
With  kindest  love, 

Yours  most  affectionately, 

MADGE  RICHARDSON. 


225.  From  a  Gentleman,  Announcing  His  Engagement. 

Canadian  Club, 

T ,  May  22,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Fawcett: — 

I  wonder  if  you  will  be  surprised  to  hear  that  I  am  going  to 
be  married,  and  that  I  shall  want  your  services  on  the  occasion  as 
best  man,  but  I  will  give  you  due  notice  when  the  day  is  fixed. 
In  the  meantime,  you  may,  if  you  please,  congratulate  me,  as  I 
consider  myself  to  be  a  very  lucky  fellow.  She  is  one  of  the 
nicest  girls  in  the  world — Fanny  Sanderson.  Didn't  you  meet 
her  at  the  last  Country  Club  golf  tournament?  I  get  on  very  well 
with  her  people,  and  my  future  father-in-law  is  inclined  to  be 
very  liberal  about  money  matters.  So,  you  see,  it's  an  all-around 
delightful  affair. 

Yours  ever, 

EDWARD  LLOYD. 


226.  To  a  Young  Lady,  from  the  Mother  of  Her  Fiance*. 

N ,  December  20,  19 — 

My  Dear  Marion: — 

My  son  Phillip  has  suggested  that  I  write  you  a  few  lines, 
and,  although  we  had  not  the  pleasure  of  meeting  each  other,  yet 
from  all  he  says  I  feel  sure  that  he  has  chosen  wisely.  He 
has  always  been  the  best  of  sons  to  me— so  affectionate,  tender- 
hearted, and  considerate ;  and  you  will  understand  something  of 
the  pride  I  feel  in  him,  and  how  dearly  I  love  him,  and  how  anx- 
ious I  am  that  the  one  who  is  to  be  his  wife  should  value  him  at 
his  true  worth.  It  would  be  a  great  pleasure  to  me  if  your  par- 


REFERENCE    TO    MARRIAGE   MATTERS  153 

ents  would  allow  you  to  pay  me  a  little  visit,  as  I  much  wish  to 
make  the  acquaintance  of  my  future  daughter-in-law. 

My  son  has  shown  me  your  photograph,  so  I  have  some  idea  as 
to  what  you  look  like.  He  tells  me  how  charming  you  are, 
and  that  he  is  certain  I  shall  not  be  disappointed  when  we 
meet.  Dear  Marion,  my  boy's  happiness  is  in  your  keeping,  and 
I  trust  and  pray  you  may  be  to  him  all  his  fond  mother  could 
wish. 

With  kind  love,  I  remain, 

Your  affectionate 

SUSAN  DEERING. 


227.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

P ,  December  22,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Deering: — 

It  was  most  kind  of  you  to  write  to  me.  I  cannot  help  feel- 
ing a  little  shy  in  answering  your  letter,  but  trust  we  shall  not 
long  remain  strangers  to  each  other.  Phillip  has  often  talked  of 
you,  and  is  so  anxious  that  we  should  meet ;  but  I  am  sorry  to 
say  mamma  cannot  spare  me  just  now,  otherwise  I  should  have 
been  very  pleased  to  have  accepted  your  kind  invitation.  I  quite 
appreciate  all  that  you  say  in  praise  of  your  son,  and  think  I 
love  him  almost  as  much  as  even  a  mother  could  wish,  and  indeed 
you  may  trust  me  to  do  all  in  my  power  to  make  him  happy. 
Thanking  you  again  for  your  kind  letter,  believe  me, 

Affectionately  yours, 

MARION  WHITE. 


228.  From  a  Gentleman  Congratulating  a  Friend  on  His 
Coming  Marriage. 

M ,  July  14,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Swift:— • 

I  just  received  your  kind  invitation  to  attend  your  wedding 
on  the  2oth  of  August.  I  am  greatly  delighted,  but  not  much  sur- 
prised to  receive  this  invitation.  I  have  had  my  suspicions  for 
some  time  that  you  were  growing  weary  of^a  bachelor's  lonely 
miserable  life.  One  by  one,  you  genial  fellows  are  passing  over  to 


154        REFERENCE  TO  MARRIAGE  MATTERS 

the  realm  of  the  married,  and  very  soon  I  alone  shall  be  left  to 
tell  the  sad  story. 

Well,  I  congratulate  you  with  all  my  heart.  You  have  had  a 
successful  career ;  you  have  earned  honor  and  competence  in  the 
battle  of  life,  and  now  you  have  won  the  "dearest  girl  in  the 
world."  God  bless  you,  old  fellow,  and  make  'all  your  coming 
days  bright  and  prosperous. 

You  may  depend  on  my  putting  in  an  appearance  on  the  2oth  of 
August.  If  the  train  fails,  or  the  tires  of  my  "bike"  give  out,  the 
walking  will  no  doubt  be  good. 

Ever,  dear  Swift, 

Yours  truly, 
JAMES  T.  LORD. 

229.  From  a  Fiancle  Asking  a  Young  Lady  to  be  Her 
Bridesmaid. 

A ,  June  10,  19—. 

My  Dear  Miss  Rice:— 

My  marriage  with  Mr.  Langdon  is  to  take  place  on  the  isth 
of  next  month,  and  I  write  to  say  it  would  give  me  much  pleasure 
if  you  would  be  one  of  my  bridesmaids.  I  thought  of  having  eight 
— my  two  sisters  of  course,  Mr.  Langdon's  sister  and  a  cousin  of 
his,  the  two  Misses  Whetherby,  yourself  if  you  will  consent,  and 
Miss  Mordaunt. 

We  have  not  yet  decided  about  the  dresses,  but  I  will  let  you 
know  what  we  settle  upon  as  soon  as  I  have  your  answer.  We 
expect  Miss  Langdon  here  to-morrow  to  talk  the  matter  over  with 
us. 

With  love  to  yourself  and  kind  regards  to  Mrs.  Rice,  believe  me, 
Very  sincerely  yours, 

SYLVIA  MARSDEN. 


CHAPTER   III 
BETWEEN  ENGAGED  PEOPLE 

230.  To  a  Lady  on  Being  First  Accepted. 

M ,  June  10,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Eva: — 

I  cannot  tell  you  with  what  impatient  anxiety  I  have  been 
awaiting  your  answer  to  my  letter,  and  though  you  were  too  good 
to  keep  me  long  in  suspense,  still  the  interval  between  writing  to 
you  and  hearing  from  you,  was  passed  by  me  in  alternate  fear  and 
hope — fear  that  I  had  mistaken  your  feelings,  and  hope  that  per- 
haps you  did  care  for  me  a  little.  At  present  I  can  hardly  realize 
the  happiness  of  knowing  that  I  may  soon  call  you  mine ;  it  is  the 
fulfillment  of  my  most  cherished  wishes. 

Believe  me,  dearest,  it  will  be  my  one  thought  and  care  to  ren- 
der your  life  a  happy  one,  and  if  we  both  love  and  trust  each 
other  we  may,  I  hope,  look  forward  to  a  bright  future-together.  I 
was  much  gratified  by  your  father's  message  to  me,  and  I  shall 

hope  to  run  down  to  R on  Saturday  next  as  he  so  kindly 

proposes.  In  the  meantime,  will  you  not  send  me  a  photo  of 
yourself  that  I  may  show  it  to  my  mother,  who  is  most  anxious  to 
know  you,  having  heard  from  her  son  how  sweet  and  lovable  you 
are? 

I  remain,  dearest  Eva, 

Your  devoted 

EDWIN  DRUMMOND. 

231.  To  a  Lady  to  Whom  the  Writer  Has  Become 
Recently  Engaged. 

Hotel  Cecil,  L , 

July  1 8,  19—. 
My  Dearest  Maud: 

I  am  conceited  enough  to  hope  that  you  have  become  a  trifle 
impatient  awaiting  news  from  me.  I  arrived  here  last  night  rather 
fatigued  from  a  hurried  journey  and  a  rough  crossing.  I  shall 
hope  to  find  a  letter  from  you  on  my  arrival  at  the  Hotel  du 
Palais,  Paris.  You  may  be  sure  I  shall  not  remain  away  from  you 

155 


156  BETWEEN  ENGAGED  PEOPLE 

a  day  longer  than  is  absolutely  necessary  to  complete  the  business 
I  have  on  hand,  and  you  will,  I  am  sure,  give  me  the  welcome  I 
deserve  for  having  made  such  haste  to  return  to  you.  I  picture 
you  sitting  under  the  chestnut  trees  on  the  dear  old  lawn,  and,  I 
trust,  thinking  of  me.  Excuse  a  short  note  to-day,  I  find  it  diffi- 
cult to  collect  my  thoughts.  I  leave  this  by  the  evening  mail. 

Remember  me   to  all  your  family;   and  believe  me,  dearest 
Maud,  Yours  devotedly, 

MAX  DINGLEY. 

232.  From  a  Gentleman  to  His  Fiancee  asking  Her  to 
Accept  a  Present. 

O ,  May  i,  19 — . 

My  Dearest: — 

Will  you  delight  me  by  accepting  the  accompanying  locket 
and  wear  it  for  my  sake?  I  shall  be  much  pleased  to  hear  that 
you  like  it,  and  only  regret  that  I  cannot  present  it  in  person, 
but  shall  hope  to  see  you  ere  long.  Excuse  a  short  letter  to-day, 
and  ever  believe  me,  Yours  affectionately, 

HAROLD  CUMMINGS. 

233.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

O ,  May  2,  19 — . 

Dearest  Harold: — 

Thank  you  so  much  for  the  beautiful  locket  received  this 
morning ;  I  admire  it  immensely,  and  shall  indeed  be  pleased  to 
wear  it  for  the  sake  of  the  dear  giver.  I  should  so  like  a  good 
photo  of  you  to  put  in  it.  Will  you  send  me  one  when  you  next 
write,  or,  better  still,  bring  it  yourself?  You  can  imagine  how 
greatly  I  am  looking  forward  to  your  promised  visit ;  will  it  not 
be  very  soon?  it  seems  so  long  since  we  saw  each  other.  I 
trust,  dearest  Harold,  you  are  quite  well,  and  are  not  overwork- 
ing yourself  with  too  much  writing  as  you  told  me  you  had  been 
doing  lately.  How  do  you  like  your  new  quarters?  Tell  me 
everything  about  yourself.  I  think  you  know  how  interested  I  am 
in  everything  that  concerns  you. 

All  are  well  at  home ;  my  aunt  thinks  of  remaining  here  another 
three  weeks.     Until  I  have  the  great  happiness  of  seeing  you, 
Believe  me,  dearest. 

Yours  lovingly, 

LOUISA. 


BETWEEN    ENGAGED    PEOPLE  157 

234.  To  a  Gentleman  to  Whom  the  Writer  Has  Just 
Become  Engaged. 

**  O August  10,  19 — . 

Dearest  Fred:— 

You  have  expressed  a  most  complimentary  desire  that  I 
should  write  you  a  long  letter  in  answer  to  yours.  It  is  a  great 
happiness  to  me  to  do  so,  and  to  know  that  you  care  to  hear  of  all 
my  thoughts,  hopes,  and  wishes.  I  have  read  your  letter  again 
and  again;  the  assurance  it  contains  of  your  affection  is  very 
precious  indeed.  Dear  Fred,  do  you  really  love  me  as  much  as 
you  say  you  do?  I  ought  not  to  doubt  it,  but  still  it  seems  so  strange 
and  new  that  I  should  have  the  power  of  winning  the  heart  of  one 
so  good  and  clever  as  you  are.  I  am  very  proud  that  it  did  happen ; 
my  heart  is  full  of  thoughts  of  you,  and  every  hour  of  the  day  I 
look  forward  to  being  with  you  again.  I  try,  oh  so  earnestly,  to 
fit  myself  for  the  position  that  awaits  me  as  your  wife,  that  you 
may  never  regret  your_choice. 

Ever  affectionately, 

EVA. 


235.  From  a  Gentleman  to  His  Fiancee. 

C ,  January  10,  19 — . 

My  Own  Dearest: — 

It  is  nine  o'clock,  and  I  am  just  home  from  the  office.  You 
see  I  am  working  hard.  My  only  thought,  all  the  time  is  not 
for  myself,  but  for  us.  You  won't  forget  it,  darling?  Do  you 
dream  sometimes  of  the  little  home  we  have  planned?  Can  you  not 
see  it  all?  Is  it  not  worth  waiting  for?  Oh,  dearest,  do  not  forget 
that  you  have  drawn  my  whole  heart  out  of  me — that  it  is  all  in 
your  keeping,  and  that  you  are  mine,  mine.  I  live  only  in  you, 
night  and  day,  waking  or  sleeping.  I  love  you  so  that  it  is  pain 
not  to  have  you,  not  to  hold  you. 

Yesterday  night  our  friend  Max  took  me  around  to  a  reception 
or  party  or  something  of  the  kind  at  his  fiancee's,  Miss  Lord.  It 
was  a  very  pretty  affair,  the  ladies  were  in  full  dress,  and  the 
house  was  decorated  in  green  and  red.  Miss  Lord  was  a  gracious 
hostess,  and  couldn't  have  done  more  than  she  did  to  make  it 
pleasant  for  me.  I  had  a  delightful  evening,  and  I  certainly 
told  her  so ;  but  I  was  thinking  only  of  you  all  the  time — you  in 
your  little  pink  gingham  under  the  apple  tree.  Do  you  remem- 


158  BETWEEN    ENGAGED    PEOPLE 

ber?  It  was  May,  and  the  sun  was  setting,  and  I  kissed  you  for 
the  first  time  without  being  scolded  for  it.  You  are  not  sorry  that 
you  didn't  scold  me?  Think  hard,  dear,  and  tell  me  when  you 
write.  And  do  so,  very  soon.  You  know  how  I  watch  the  mails, 
and  how  disappointed  I  am  when  the  longed-for  letter  isn't  there. 
Good-night,  my  beloved,  my  precious  little  one. 

Yours  devotedly, 

EDWARD. 


236.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

L ,  January  13,  19—. 

Dearest  Edward: — 

The  snow  is  twenty  inches  deep,  and  we  are  almost  buried. 
Jim  brought  me  your  letter  this  morning.  He  was  quite  exhausted 
ploughing  his  way  up  to  the  house.  "Thought  it  would  pay  me, 
Polly,"  he  said,  "to see  the  love-light  in  your  eyes."  Dear,  lonely 
old  Jim,  so  faithful  and  unselfish!  Mother  brought  him  in  and 
gave  him  a  cup  of  coffee.  I  don't  know  why  it  is,  Edward,  but 
sometimes  I  want  to  share  my  happiness  with  everybody,  and 
then'again  I  like  to  feel  that  it  is  exclusively  my  own.  It  is  splen- 
did of  you,  Edward,  to  be  working  so  hard,  and  I  am  proud,  and 
proud  that  you  [love  me.  I  have  also  been  working  hard  since 
yesterday  morning.  You  could  never  guess  at  what.  Mother 
and  I  have  been  cataloguing  and  arranging  the  books  in  the  school 
library ;  you^cannot  imagine  what  a  task  it  was.  And  this  even- 
ing Mr.  Melville  is  coming  around  to'consult  with  mother  about 
library  methods,  and  how  to  manage  the  circulation  of  the  books. 
I  am  going  to  ask  him  to  mail  this  letter  for  me,  so  must  finish 
it  as  quickly  as  possible. 

Yes,  Edward,  I  do  remember  that  May  sunset  from  under  the 
apple  tree.  It  is  very  long  ago.  We  were  only  children.  I 
didn't  know  what  love  was  then — how  deep  and  strong.  Beloved, 
I  never  forget  you,  never  pause  in  my  loving  of  you. 

Your  own 

MARY. 


BETWEEN    ENGAGED   PEOPLE  159 

237.  Another  Letter  from  a  Gentleman  to  His  Fiancee. 

S ,  December  14,  19 — . 

My  Darling: — 

All  day  in  the  store,  and  then  the  long  evening  in  my  room 
alone,  that  is  my  outward  life.  And  my  inward  life — it  is  you, 
only  you,  for  I  think  of  you  all  the  time. 

The  rush  of  business  is  increasing  as  the  holiday  season  draws 
near ;  such  hurrying,  scurrying  crowds  of  people,  and  onlyjone  little 
girl  in  all  the  wide  world  that  I  want.  And]my  arms  ache  for  her 
to-night. 

Eva,  dear,  your  last  letter  is  worn  quite"  to  tatters  from  being 
carried  in  my  pocket  and  pulled  out  for  frequent  re-reading.  You 
would  laugh  if  you  could  see  it,  and  take  pity  on  me  and  write 
me  a  new  one. 

Tell  me,  darling,  what  you  are  doing.  Have  you  finished  read- 
ing Romola?  Do  you  like  it !  Are  you  keeping  up  your  practic- 
ing? Did  you  have  a  good  time  at  the  sleighing  party?  Who 
was  there?  A  regular  string  of  questions,  isn't  it?  You  know 
everything  you  write  interests  me,  and  I  like  the  little  details 
most  of  all.  Your  letters  are  little  fragments  of  you.  I  kiss  them 
and  treasure  them  most  sacredly.  O  darlingest,  dearest  girl,  I 
love  you  and  long  for  you.  Tell  me,  dear,  can't  you  feel  me  lov- 
ing you  even  though  you  are  so  far  away?  And  do  you  love  me? 
I  like  to  have  you  say  so.  And  how  much?  But,  ah !  you  are  too 
far  away.  I  can't  hold  you  until  you  laugh  and  have  to  tell. 

Every  night  and  every  morning  I  thank  God  that  I  have  found 
the  dearest,  truest  girl  that  ever  was,  and  that  she  has  given  me 
her  promise  to  be  mine.  Dearest,  I  think  of  it  every  hour.  Noth- 
ing can  ever  separate  us.  Am  wholly,  wholly  yours,  and  you 
are  mine  to  love  and  cherish. 

With  a  heart  full  of  devotion, 

Yours  ever, 

ALFRED  HINMAN. 


238.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

M ,  December  16,  19—. 

Dear  Alfred:— 

My  walk  to  the  office  this  morning  after  papa's  mail  was 
well  rewarded  by  your  .letter.    Charlie  Darwin  was  there  posting 


l6o  BETWEEN    ENGAGED    PEOPLE 

eight  dozens  of  his  circulars.  He  is  perfectly  jubilant  over  his 
prospects,  and  he  had  to  walk  home  with  me  to  tell  all  about 
them.  He  said  he  was  going  along  my  way,  and  if  I  didn't  mind, 
as  it  was  very  slippery — Of  course  I  said  I  didn't,  so  I  put  your 
letter  into  my  pocket  and  waited  for  a  good  time  to  read  it. 

It's  very  funny  how  you  wear  my  letters  out  so  soon.  I  wonder 
why  they  don't  make  note  paper  like  the  tough  paper  that  is  used 
in  little  Paul's  Baby  Goose  picture  book. 

I  had  a  fine  time  at  our  Church  Fair  last  night.  Mrs.  Sullivan 
changed  her  mind  at  the  last,  and  had  me  serve  as  Rebecca  at  the 
Well,  while  Maggie  presided  at  the  candy  booth,  just  as  she  had 
wanted  to.  Guess  how  many  glasses  of  lemonade  I  sold.  One 
hundred  and  seventeen.  Charlie  Darwin  drank  eight.  Do  you 
think  you  could  have  swallowed  as  many  as  that,  Alfred? 

I  am  keeping  up  my  practicing  pretty  well,  that  is,  I  practice 
an  hour  a  day,  except'the  days  I  write  to  you.  Would  you  rather 
have  me  practice  every  day?  You  know,  I  am  keeping  up  my  piano 
only  because  you  are  so  anxious  to  have  me,  and  I  want  you  to  be 
satisfied.  People  think  I  am  getting  on  very  nicely. 

The  sleigh  ride  was  grand.  All  the  girls  went,  and  nearly  all 
the  boys.  Phillip  Small  could  not  get  permission  to  go.  It  was  a 
perfect  shame.  Every  one  missed  him.  We  had  a  fine  supper  at 
the  Davidsons'  old  place. 

Oh,  Alfred,  I  wish  you  could  come^home  for  Christmas.  It  will 
be  so  lonely  and  dismal  for  you,  away  off  by  yourself,  and  it  won't 
seem  at  all  like  Christmas  here  without  you.  How  I  long 
to  see  you !  There  is  so  much  to  tell.  Do  you  remember  last 
Christmas,  dearest?  Mamma  is  trying  to  send  me  to  bed,  so  I 
must  stop  writing.  But  I  haven't  answered  all  your  questions. 
Oh,  Al.  dear,  are  you  never  satisfied?  What  do  you  suppose 
Charlie  said  to  me  this  morning?  "Daisy,  you're  all  heart — just 
one  big  heart. "  Doesn't  that  sound  like  him?  And  there  wasn't 
anything  to  lead  up  to  it.  I  was  weighed  last  Wednesday  at  the 
butcher's.  Guess  how  much?  122  pounds.  There,  mamma  is 
calling.  Good  night,  Al.  But  I  was  going  to  answer  your  ques- 
tion how  much  I  love  you.  If  Charlie  and  the  scales  spoke  the 
truth  I  think  about  122  pounds.  But  then,  Charlie  was  only  jok- 
ing. He  doesn't  mean  half  he  says.  Do  you  think  so? 

Your  affectionate 

DAISY. 


BETWEEN    ENGAGED    PEOPLE  l6l 

239.   To  a  Lady  to  Whom   the   Writer  is   Engaged,  Asking 
Her  to  Name  the  Day. 

N ,  October  30,  19 — . 

My  Darling  Alice : — 

Don't  you  think  we  have  been  engaged  quite  long  enough 
to  understand  each  other  thoroughly,  and  do  you  see  any  good 
reason  for  delaying  our  marriage?  I  have  not  pressed  you  before 
on  this  point,  but  if  you  really  love  me  as  I  think  you  do,  you  will 
consent  to  make  me  happy  by  naming  an  early  day.  Why  should 
we  not  be  married  immediately  after  Christmas?  this  would  give 
you  time  for  any  preparations  you  may  have  to  make,  while,  as 
for  myself,  I  should  be  quite  ready  to  receive  my  dear  little  wife 
next  week,  if  she  would  only  come  to  me.  Dearest  Alice,  will 
you  consult  your  mother?  I  feel  sure  she  will  say  I  am  right  in 
asking  you  not  to  put  off  our  marriage  any  longer.  Cannot 
possibly  get  away  from  here  for  the  next  ten  days  or  so,  but  do 
write  and  tell  me  it  shall  be  as  I  wish. 
God  bless  you,  darling. 

Your  affectionate  and  devoted, 

ALBERT  THURSTON. 


240.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Favorable). 

F ,  November  3,  19 — . 

Dearest  Albert  :— 

Your  affectionate  letter  touched  me  deeply.  You  asked  me 
a  very  momentous  question,  to  name  the  day  of  our  marriage. 
Dear  Albert,  it  shall  be  as  you  wish ;  your  arguments  are  so  con- 
vincing I  can  only  feel  that  you  are  right,  and  say  yes  to  all  you 
propose.  My  mother  also  thinks  that  the  28th  of  December  would 
not  be  too  soon,  and  that  I  can  make  all  my  preparations  within 
that  time;  therefore  let  it  be  the  28th.  The  period  of  our  engage- 
ment seems  very  brief,  indeed,  but  I  have  such  perfect  trust  in 
you,  and  we  know  each  other  so  thoroughly,  that  I  need  not  post- 
pone our  marriage  with  the  idea  of  seeing  more  of  you,  and  can 
look  forward  to  our  passing  a  very  happy  life  together. 
Good-bye,  dearest  Albert;  fondest  love 

From  your  own 

ALICE. 


l62  BETWEEN    ENGAGED    PEOPLE 

241.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Unfavorable). 

F ,  November  2,  19 — . 

Dearest  Albert : — 

I  only  wish  I  could  write  as  you  suggest,  but  really  there 
are  many  reasons  against  our  marriage  taking  place  just  at  pres- 
ent. We  have,  as  you  say,  been  engaged  some  time,  but  three 
months  is,  after  all,  a  very  short  period  in  which  to  learn  the 
tastes,  feelings,  and  ideas  of  one  who  is  to  be  life's  dearest  com- 
panion ;  besides,  we  have  seen  so  little  of  each  other,  and  I  cannot 
help  feeling  that  this  period  of  our  life  is  perhaps  the  sweetest  and 
pleasantest  we  may  ever  experience.  Married  life  will  bring  cares 
and  responsibilities  with  it,  and  I  would  prolong  my  present  happi- 
ness as  long  as  possible.  You  must  not  be  angry  with  me  for  saying 
this,  dear  Albert,  or  for  being  rather  reluctant  to  exchange  happy 
certainty  for  the  unknown  future.  My  mother  will  not  influence 
me  either  way,  but  allows  me  to  judge  for  myself.  She  will  be 
happy  to  see  you  here  when  you  can  arrange  to  come  to  us  for  a 
few  days,  and  you  and  I  can  then  talk  the  matter  over,  and  per- 
haps your  arguments  may  prove  more  convincing  than  mine,  in 
which  case  I  shall  give  way. 
In  the  meantime,  believe  me,  as  ever, 

Your  affectionate 

ALICE. 


242.  From  a  Lady  to    Her   Fiancg,  Asking  Him   to  Consent 
to  the  Postponement  of  their  Marriage. 

N ,  November  30,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Albert:— 

A  few  weeks  ago,  when  I  promised  that  our  marriage 
should  take  place  in  December,  I  fully  intended  to  keep  my  word, 
but  on  consideration,  feel  compelled  to  ask  you  to  let  it  be  post- 
poned for  a  few  months  longer.  I  have  no  good  reason  to  urge  for 
this  delay — perhaps  I  am  over-sensitive  and  anxious,  but  still,  if  you 
would  agree  to  it  I  should  be  very  grateful.  It  strikes  me 
we  entered  upon  our  engagement  rather  hastily,  and  that  I  was 
persuaded  against  my  better  judgment  to  fix  next  month  for  our 
marriage.  I  think  it  will  be  better  for  both  of  us  that  we  should 
endeavor  to  learn  more  of  each  other's  tastes,  and  what  each 
requires  of  the  other.  Your  line  of  life  is  so  decided  that  I  wish 


BETWEEN    ENGAGED    PEOPLE  163 

to  be  certain  it  will  suit  me  exactly,  or  that  you  would  meet  me  in 
some  degree  with  little  concessions  to  my  individual  tastes.  I 
have  written  to  you  out  of  the  fullness  of  my  heart,  and  trust  you 
will  not  misunderstand  me,  or  think  I  do  not  love  you.  My  request 
is  for  a  little  more  time,  wnich  I  am  sure  you  will  not  refuse  me. 
Believe  me,  dear  Albert. 

Your  ever  affectionate 

ALICE  WHITE. 


243.  From  a  Gentleman  to  his  Fiancee,  Complaining  of  Her 
Coldness. 

S ,  February  10,  19 — . 

Dearest  Alva: — 

Do  you  not  realize  how  miserable  you  make  me  by  the  way 
you  have  acted  recently?  You  cannot  suppose  it  is  very  pleasant 
for  me  to  see  you,  day  after  day,  encouraging  the  attentions  of 
other  men.  At  the  party  last  night  you  appeared  to  prefer  every 
man  in  the  room  to  myself  as  partner.  If  you  acted  in  this  way 
with  the  idea  of  arousing  my  jealousy,  let  me  tell  you  it  is  a  very 
dangerous  game  to  play  at ;  but  I  imagine  nothing  so  flattering 
to  myself  was  intended,  and  that  a  love  of  admiration  and 
indifference  to  my  feelings  were  the  motives  that  actuated  you. 
If  this  is  the  case,  it  would  be  best  for  both  of  us  that  our  engage- 
ment should  be  at  an  end ;  if,  however,  you  are  able  to  assure  me 
that  you  meant  nothing  by  your  thoughtless  coquetry  beyond  the 
amusement  of  the  moment,  you  shall  never  again  hear  a  word  of 
reproach  from  me  on  the  subject,  and  I  will  trust  you  as  fully  as 
before. 

Believe  me,  dearest, 

Your  ever  faithful  and  affectionate 

PHILIP  DORRIMKR. 


244.  From  a  Lady  to  Her  Fiance",  Complaining  of  His 
Indifference. 

G ,  January  15,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Paul  :— 

For  some  time  past  I  have  been  trying  to  make  up  my  mind 
to  put  my  anxieties  into  words,  but  have  shrunk  from  doing  so, 
hoping  that  perhaps  it  was  all  a  mistake ;  now  I  can  no  longer  delude 


164  BETWEEN    ENGAGED    PEOPLE 

myself  into  thinking  this  is  the  case.  I  feel  you  are  very  much 
changed,  your  manner  to  me  at  times  almost  amounting  to  indif- 
ference. Your  letters  are  short  and  cold,  and  but  few  words  of 
affection  can  be  extracted  from  them.  I  am  beginning  to  think 
you  no  longer  care  for  me;  perhaps  this  is  what  you  wish  me 
to  understand.  And  yet  it  is  hard  to  believe  this  of  you;  it 
must  be  that  something  or  some  one  has  estranged  you  from  me, 
and  that  an  explanation  between  us  will  put  things  on  their  former 
footing ;  anyhow,  I  give  you  now  the  opportunity  of  telling  me 
everything,  and  implore  you  to  be  frank,  as  our  future  happiness 
depends  upon  our  never  allowing  any  misunderstanding  to  stand 
between  us. 
Believe  me,  dear  Paul, 

Your  affectionate 

MADGE. 


245.  From  a  Lady   to  Her  Fiancg  of  Whom   She  is  Jealous. 

W ,  May  1 8,  19—. 

My  Dear  Charles:— 

May  I  hope  that  you  will  not  think  me  foolishly  exacting  if 
I  say  that  you  have  pained  and  hurt  me  by  the  attentions  you  so 
constantly  offer  to  Mrs.  Dunstable?  I  do  not  suppose  you  mean 
to  vex  me,  and  have  no  doubt  it  is  more  her  fault  than  yours, 
but  still  I  wish  you  would  be  a  little  less  empress^  in  your  manner 
to  her.  You  will  think  perhaps  that  I  am  jealous ;  it  is  not  quite 
that,  but  yet  I  have  a  sort  of  feeling  that  you  ought  not  to 
be  so  nice  to  her.  You  will  not  be  angry  with  me  for  saying 
this,  dear  Charles;  it  is  my  great  love  for  you  that  causes  me 
to  attach  such  importance  to  every  look  and  word  of  yours,  and  to 
feel  reluctant  that  other  women  should  share  them  with  me.  You 
must  not  say  that  this  argues  a  want  of  trust  in  you  unworthy  of 
us  both ;  indeed,  I  do  trust  you,  otherwise  my  self-respect  would 
not  allow  me  to  write  so  frank  a  letter  as  this  one  is.  Perhaps  I 
have  only  to  tell  you  what  is  in  my  heart  for  you  to  give  me  no 
further  cause  for — shall  I  say  jealousy?  although  I  have  tried  to 
leave  this  unpleasant  word  out  of  this  letter. 
Always,  dear  Charles, 

Your  loving 

LAURA. 


BETWEEN    ENGAGED    PEOPLE  165 

246.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Protesting). 

W ,  May  19,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Laura: — 

I  do  not  deserve,  in  any  degree,  the  reproaches  contained 
in  your  letter  of  yesterday,  and  am  surprised  at  your  permitting 
yourself  to  indulge  in  such  feelings.  Great  as  my  attachment 
is,  I  must  tell  you,  once  for  all,  that  I  detest  jealousy  in  a 
woman,  and  should  soon  cease  to  care  for  one  who  tormented 
me  by  repetition  of  such  accusations.  If,  during  our  engagement, 
you  are  to  feel  aggrieved  at  my  offering  the  slightest  civility  to 
any  lady  of  my  acquaintance,  what  chance  of  happiness  is  there 
in  store  for  us  in  married  life?  I  can  see  nothing  but  wretched- 
ness ahead  if  you  persist  in  giving  way  to  this  feeling;  dis- 
miss it  from  your  mind,  it  is  not  worthy  of  you,  and  remember 
that  perfect  trust  is  what  I  expect  and  desire  from  the  one  who  is 
to  become  my  wife.  I  feel  strongly  on  the  subject,  as  so  much 
alienation  and  misery  are  occasioned  by  unfounded  jealousy. 
Believe  me,  my  dearest  Laura, 

Ever  yours, 

CHARLES  P.  WORTHINGTON. 


247.  Answer  to  No.  245  (Conciliating). 

W ,  January  12,  19 — . 

My  Dearest  Laura: — 

How  foolish  of  you  to  underrate  your  own  attractions  so  far 
as  to  think  I  could  prefer  any  one  to  yourself !  Do  not  entertain 
such  a  thought  for  a  moment.  My  heart  is  wholly  yours,  and 
not  a  thought  of  mine  is  bestowed  upon  any  one  else.  I  did  not  in 
the  least  intend  to  convey  anything  beyond  mere  politeness  by  my 
attentions  to  Mrs.  Dunstable ;  but  if  you  think  that  I  have  inad- 
vertently given  you  the  least  cause  for  uneasiness,  you  may 
depend  upon  my  being  very  much  on  my  guard  in  future,  so  as  to 
avoid  the  faintest  suspicion  of  a  preference  for  the  society  of  any 
young  lady,  save  yourself,  be  she  ever  so  charming. 
Believe  me,  dearest  Laura, 

Your  deeply  attached 

CHARLEY. 


l66  BETWEEN    ENGAGED    PEOPLE 

248.  From  a  Gentleman  to  His  Fiancee  Acknowledging  His 
Jealousy. 

P ,  March  10,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Ethel:— 

Do  you  really  mean  to  break  off  your  engagement  with  me? 
I  can  only  suppose  it  is  so  from  the  way  you  allow  Mr.  Small  to 
devote  himself  to  you.  It  seems  every  one  is  aware  he  is  paying 
you  more  attention  than,  under  the  circumstances,  you  ought  to 
receive  from  any  man  except  myself.  Either  he  is  ignorant  of  the 
engagement  between  us,  or  he  is  dishonorable  enough  to  act  thus 
in  spite  of  it.  If  you  have  not  sufficient  regard  for  my  feelings 
and  for  your  own  position  as  my  promised  wife,  to  put  an  end  at 
once  to  any  further  acquaintance  with  Mr.  Small,  you  will  under- 
stand that  I  resign  all  pretensions  to  your  hand ;  but  should  be 
sorry  to  think  that  you  had  changed  so  completely  in  the  last  few 
weeks  as  to  care  for  me  no  longer.  My  sentiments  have  not 
altered  towards  you,  in  spite  of  all  that  has  passed ;  and  it  rests 
with  you  to  say  whether  you  prefer  that  man  to  myself.  I  shall 
of  course  abide  by  your  decision,  and  remain, 

Yours  very  truly, 

GEORGE  LINDSAY. 


249.  From  a  Gentleman  to  His  Fiancee  Apologizing  for  His 
Unwarranted  Jealousy. 

C ,  August  10,  19 — . 

My  Dearest  Girl:— 

I  feel  entirely  satisfied,  from  the  explanation  you  have 
given  me,  that  my  jealousy  was  unfounded,  and  I  must  ask  Ifor 
your  forgiveness  for  having  doubted  you.  Am  afraid  my  accusa- 
tions must  have  pained  you  very  much,  and  I  deeply  regret  writ- 
ing as  I  did ;  but  you  are  so  good  and  gentle,  am  sure  you  will 
receive  me  into  favor  on  my  promising  never  to  offend  again  in  a 
like  manner.  You  must  not  be  very  angry  with  me  for  fearing  to 
lose  what  I  prize  so  dearly,  the  love  of  my  darling  Helen. 
Once  more,  dearest,  forgive  me,  and  believe  me 

Your  devoted 

EDWARD. 


BETWEEN    ENGAGED    PEOPLE  167 

250.  From  a  Young  Lady  to  Her  Fiance"  Apologizing  for 
Her  Unfounded  Jealousy. 

R ,  September  10,  19 — . 

My  Dearest  Howard: — 

I  have  been  so  wretched,  of  late,  thinking  you  did  not  care 
for  me  as  you  used  to,  that  the  joy  of  receiving  your  letter,  and 
learning  that  I  still  hold  the  first  place  in  your  heart,  has  been 
almost  too  much  for  me,  and  made  me  shed  such  happy  tears.  It  is 
so  hard  to  doubt  one  you  love,  and  it  seems  that  I  have  tormented 
myself  quite  unnecessarily  all  these  past  weeks ;  still  you  must 
admit  there  was  some  excuse  for  my  making  myself  miserable. 
What  was  I  to  think  from  your  silence,  and  from  all  that  was 
said?  Dearest  Howard,  believe  me,  I  will  never  doubt  you  again, 
never,  never,  and  shall  always  think  you  are  the  kindest,  dear- 
est, best,  and  truest  of  men,  and  that  you  are  all  my  own. 
Now  and  always, 

Your  loving 

ANNA. 


251.  From  the  Mother  of  a  Young   Lady  to  Her  Daughter's 
Fianc<§,  Concerning  a  Quarrel  Between  the  Lovers. 

W ,  April  12,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mr.  Felton  :— 

I  well  know  how  delicate  a  matter  it  is  for  a  third  person  to 
interfere  in  lovers'  quarrels,  but  as  the  happiness  of  my  daughter 
is  at  stake,  it  is  my  duty  as  her  mother  to  try  and  bring  about 
a  reconciliation  between  you.  I  will  not  question  which  of  you  is 
at  fault;  all  I  wish  is  to  see  the  smiles  return  to  my  child's  face, 
and  tranquillity  to  her  heart.  She  is  evidently  very  unhappy,  but 
tries  to  conceal  it  even  from  me.  Dear  Mr.  Felton,  if  you  really 
love  her,  as  I  am  sure  you  do,  you  will  come  to  Katherine  on  receipt 
of  this  letter,  and  you  need  have  no  fear  of  your  welcome. 
/Trusting  you  will  not  misunderstand  the  feeling  that  actuates  me 
in  thus  writing  to  you, 
Believe  me, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

ANNA  DURAND  DE  WITT, 


CHAPTER    IV 

BREAKING  OFF  ENGAGEMENTS 

252.  From  a  Gentleman  to   His   Fiancee  Asking  Her  to  put 
an  End  to  Their  Engagement. 

D ,  January  19,  19—. 

My  Dear  Susan: — 

I  have  hesitated  long  before  writing  to  you  on  a  rather  deli- 
cate subject,  but  trust  you  will  not  be  hurt  or  offended  if  I  say 
that  our  tastes  are  so  opposite,  that  married  life  under  such 
circumstances  could  not  fail  to  result  in  unhappiness  to  both  of 
us.  Your  heart  is  evidently  set  on  the  enjoyment  of  all  the 
gaieties  of  life,  while  my  ideas  are  centered  in  domestic  quiet  and 
repose.  I  have  neither  the  means  nor  the  inclination  to  enter  into 
the  former,  and  you  would  hardly  content  yourself  with  the  latter. 
You  cannot  but  acknowledge  the  truth  of  my  statement,  and  I 
have  no  doubt  you  will  see  the  necessity  of  putting  an  end  at 
once  to  an  engagement  that  is  in  every  way  unsuitable. 
Believe  me,  dear  Miss  Belden, 

Very  truly  yours, 

FRANK  B.  RICE. 


253.  From  ft  Young   Lady  to  Her   Fiance"  Putting  an  end  to 
Their  Engagement. 

A ,  December  5,  19 — . 

Dear  Charles  :— 

It  is  only  after  much  serious  thinking  that  I  write  you  this 
note.     Some  time  you  will  thank  me  for  it. 

Is  it  not  better,  in  a  matter  that  concerns  the  happiness  of  two 
lives,  to  undo  a  mistake  at  any  cost  than  to  wait  until  too  late? 
We  thought  once  that  we  truly  loved  each  other,  but  we  have  found, 
during  the  period  of  our  engagement,  that  in  many  grave  respects 
we  are  not  congenial.  Our  tastes,  our  aims  in  life,  our  ideals  are 
so  diverse,  that  I  believe  our  union  could  not  be  perfectly  happy. 
When  you  review  in  your  mind  the  occurrences  of  the  past 

168 


BREAKING    OFF    ENGAGEMENTS  169 

months,  I  am  sure  you  will  agree  with  me.  It  is  not  necessary  to 
place  the  blame.  Perhaps  there  has  been  no  fault  but  hastiness. 
Considering  everything,  I  would  suggest  that  our  engagement 
cease  by  mutual  consent,  and  our  friendship  continue  as  far  as 
seems  agreeable  and  natural.  We  shall  have  many  pleasant 
memories  and  some  sad  ones  in  common.  The  latter,  in  time, 
will  be  forgotten. 

Yours  sincerely, 

FLORENCE  LUDINGTON. 


254.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

C ,  December  7,  19 — . 

Dear  Florence  :— 

I  cannot  but  think  that  you  regard, 'our  little  differences  too 
seriously.  In  fact,  I  look  upon  them  rather  as  misunderstandings 
than  differences.  But  since  you  suggest  it,  I  consent  that  we  call 
our  engagement  broken  for  the  present.  I  agree  to  it  only  because 
you  want  to  feel  perfectly  free,  and  I  do  so  in  good  faith ;  you 
are  free.  Whatever  the  end,  I  shall  never  blame  you ;  my  faith 
in  your  sincerity  and  true  nobility  stands  undiminished.  In 
my  own  mind  I  consider  our  engagement  as  merely  suspended. 
Doubtless  time  will  show  you  what  mere  trifles — nothings,  we 
might  say — are  dividing  us.  It  was  not  lightly,  my  darling,  that 
I  gave  you  my  heart. 
Yours  as  ever,  with  love  and  devotion, 

CHARLES  DAVIDSON. 


255.  From  a    Lady   to    Her   Fianc6   Breaking  off  Their  En- 
gagement on  Account  of  His  Coldness. 

T ,  July  22,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Lawrence : — 

You  will  not  feel  surprised  at  the  contents  of  this  letter  ; 
indeed,  you  have  hardly  left  me  any  alternative  than  to  say 
our  engagement  is  at  an  end.  Perhaps  I  ought  to  have  arrived 
at  this  decision  sooner,  but  was  reluctant  to  give  you  up  until 
quite  sure  it  was  the  right  thing  for  me  to  do.  I  could  not  be 
happy  with  one  whom  I  did  not  esteem  as  well  as  love,  and  by 
your  conduct  of  late  you  have  forfeited  my  good  opinion,  and 


170  BREAKING    OFF    ENGAGEMENTS 

have  destroyed  my  faith  in  you.     Your  letters  are  herewith  re- 
turned and  I  beg  that  you  will  send  mine  back;  kindly  acknowl- 
edge also  receipt  of  the  presents  you  have  made  me  at  different 
times. 
Believe  me, 

Yours  truly, 

MADELINE  STORKS. 


256.  From   a   Lady  to  Her   Fianc6    Breaking   off  Their  En- 
gagement on  Account  of  a  Change  in  Her  Feelings 
toward  Him. 

N ,  February  10,  19 — > 

Dear  Harry! — 

I  want  you  to  believe  that  I  am  sincerely  grieved  "at  the 
pain  this  letter  may  occasion  you,  and  trust  you  will  not  think 
harshly  of  me  for  what  I  arri  about  to  say.  I  did  not  rightly  under- 
stand my  own  feelings  when  our  engagement  took  place,  and 
mistook  esteem  and  friendship  for  love.  Much  as  it  costs  me  to 
make  this  confession,  it  is  my  clear  duty  to  tell  you  I  can  never 
entertain  the  affection  for  you  that  one  has  a  right  to  expect 
from  a  future  wife. 

This  knowledge  has  made  me  very  unhappy,  but  I  have  now 
determined  to  ask  to  be  released  from  my  promise ;  dear  Harry, 
forgive  me ;  I  feel  convinced  that  some  day  you  will  be  as  happy 
as  you  deserve,  although  it  is  not  in  my  power  to  make  you  so. 
Believe  me,  with  unwavering  friendship, 

Yours  very  sincerely, 

CARRIE  DUNMORE. 


257.  From  a  Gentleman  to  His   Fiancee  Offering  to   Release 
Her  from  Their  Engagement. 

P ,  August  7,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Evelyn : — 

I  exceedingly  regret  to  tell  you  that  my  darkest  fears  have 
been  realized ;  the  business  disaster  of  which  I  have  spoken  to  you 
has  come,  and  it  is  more  complete  than  our  worst  expectations  had 
led  us  to  believe.  We  have  fought  a  long,  hard  fight,  and,  as 


BREAKING    OFF    ENGAGEMENTS  iyi 

honorable  men,  there  was  nothing  else  for  us  to  do  but  to  close 
our  doors  and  put  our  affairs  in  the  hands  of  our  creditors. 

Whether  the  firm  will  resume,  or  what  the  course  of  the  future 
will  be,  is  yet  undecided.  For  myself  I  am  not  greatly  troubled. 
As  long  as  youth,  health  and  hope  remain,  I  am  not  afraid  of  the 
coming  struggle.  But  there  is  one  direct  duty  before  me  in  rela- 
tion to  you  that  must  be  performed  without  delay.  Under  the  most 
promising  circumstances,  it  will  be  a  very  long  time,  perhaps 
years,  before  I  could  offer  you  the  home  and  comfort  on  which 
my  heart  was  set,  and  concerning  which  we  have  had  so  many 
and  such  delightful  conversations;  and  it  would  not  be  fair 
to  hold  you  to  your  engagement  under  these  altered  circum- 
stances. I  beg  you,  therefore,  to  consider  yourself  perfectly  free 
to  act  in  this  matter  as  your  judgment  and  heart  may  dictate.  I 
will  not  trust  myself  to  say  what  I  feel  on  this  subject  further  than 
this,  that  in  offering  you  perfect  freedom  I  am  following  the  only 
honorable  course  due  to  you  and  to  myself. 

Shall  be  very  busy  evenings  at  the  office  for  two  or  three  days, 
but  will  call  upon  you  on  Friday  night  and  we  can  talk  matters  over. 

Ever,  dear  Evelyn, 

Yours  truly, 

MARTIN  STANLEY. 


258.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

P ,  August  8,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Martin: — 

Your  letter  of  yesterday  was  duly  received.  It  made  me 
very  sad,  and  yet  proud  of  you.  You  are  proving  so  honorable 
and  chivalrous !  I  am  deeply  sorry  for  this  business  failure.  But 
cheer  up.  You  have,  as  you  say,  youth  on  your  side,  and  you  are 
lacking  neither  in  brains  nor  in  courage.  These  are  treasures  that 
nothing  and  no  one  can  wrest  from  you,  and  with  them  the  future 
is  bound  to  turn  out  bright  and  prosperous.  I  understand  you 
wish  me  to  act  in  relation  to  our  engagement  as  my  judgment  and 
heart  dictate.  This  is  like  you,  Martin.  Well,  come  around  on 
Friday  and  we  shall  discuss  the  subject.  In  the  meantime,  be 
assured  that  no  one  sympathizes  with  you  in  this  day  of  difficulty 
more  than 

Your  affectionate 

EVELYN. 


172  BREAKING    OFF    ENGAGEMENTS 

259.  From  a  Mother  to  Her  Daughter's  Fiance*  Breaking  off 
the  Engagement. 

S ,  June  14,  19—. 

Dear  Mr.  Martin  :— 

It  is  with  my  daughter's  consent  that  I  write  you  this  letter, 
and  my  painful  duty  is  to  tell  you  that,  as  there  seems  no  pros- 
pect of  your  being  able  to  make  a  home  for  her,  it  is  cruel  and 
unfair  to  hold  Alva  to  a  promise  which  has  now  lasted  over  two 
years.  You  have  not  fulfilled  any  of  the  pledges  you  voluntarily 
made,  and  which  induced  me  to  sanction  your  attentions.  I 
understand  that  your  family  are  not  inclined  to  do  anything  for 
you,  and  therefore  see  nothing  for  my  daughter  but  years  of 
weary  waiting,  probably  to  end  in  ultimate  disappointment. 

If  you  have  any  regard  for  her  welfare,  you  will,  I  am  sure, 
release  her  from  her  present  trying  position,  and  accept  my  deci- 
sion for  her  good  without  endeavoring  to  shake  her  resolution.  I 
must  ask  you  to  send  me  a  few  lines  of  acquiescence ;  and  with 
every  wish  for  your  success  in  life, 
Believe  me,  dear  Mr,  Martin, 

Truly  yours, 

ALTHEA  LUDLOW. 


260.  From  a  Father  to  His  Daughter's   Fiance"  Breaking  off 
the  Engagement. 

C ,  October  10,  19 — . 

SIR:— 

Circumstances  that  have  just  come  to  my  knowledge  com- 
pel me,  as  a  matter  of  duty,  to  break  off  the  engagement  between 
my  daughter  and  yourself.  I  have  desired  her  to  hold  no  further 
communication  with  you,  and  I  have  been  sufficiently  explicit  to 
convince  her  how  unworthy  you  are  of  her  affection  and  esteem. 
It  is  unnecessary  for  me  to  give  you  the  reasons  which  have 
induced  me  to  form  this  judgment,  and  I  only  add  that  nothing 
you  can  say  will  alter  my  determination. 

FELIX  DUSENBURY. 
Edward  Renwick,  Esq. 


PART  IV 
SOCIAL  INTERCOURSE 


CHAPTER  I 

INTRODUCTORY  REMARKS 

The  act  of  writing  a  social  letter  is  to  many  people  a  task  of 
some  little  difficulty  from  various  points  of  view.  They  are  at  a 
loss  as  to  the  most  fitting  manner  in  which  to  express  that  which 
they  have  to  communicate,  and  one,  two,  and  three  sheets  of  note 
paper  often  bear  witness  to  their  attempts  and  failures.  Either  at 
the  commencement  or  at  the  finish,  it  strikes  them  that  something 
is  not  as  it  should  be,  or,  right  in  the  middle,  they  come  to  a 
deadlock  altogether.  Others,  again,  have  not  the  intelligence  to 
discover  for  themselves  that  their  letter  is  not  up  to  the  regulation 
standard  of  notes  in  general,  and  have  to  face  criticism  and  even 
ridicule.  In  writing  letters,  it  is  curious  to  observe  how  closely 
certain  sets  of  words  and  expressions  are  followed  by  the  gener- 
ality of  people ;  they  accept  them  as  models,  and  adhere  to  them. 
But  phrases  in  letter  writing  change,  as  everything  else  changes, 
and  what  was  strictly  polite  and  proper  to  write  under  given  cir- 
cumstances some  twenty  or  thirty  years  ago  is  not  quite  the  thing 
to  say  to-day. 

To  commence  a  letter  to  a  comparative  stranger,  or  to  a  person 
with  whom  the  writer  is  but  slightly  acquainted,  is  the  first  diffi- 
culty to  overcome.  Shall  it  be  a  letter  or  a  note,  written  in  the 
first  or  in  the  third  person?  This  is  to  many  a  perplexing  ques- 
tion, and  yet  there  need  be  no  doubt  on  this  point,  as  there  are 
safe  rules  for  every  one's  guidance  in  such  matters.  In  all  com- 
munications with  strangers,  it  would  be  correct  to  write  in  the 
third  person.  A  very  slight  acquaintance,  however,  would 
authorize  a  letter  being  written  in  the  first  person  if  it  were  to  be 
of  any  length. 

173 


174  SOCIAL    INTERCOURSE 

It  is  an  accomplishment  to  write  a  good  letter,  and  one  of  which 
few  can  boast,  while  to  write  a  bad  one  is  so  general  a  practice 
that  the  receipt  of  a  good  letter  almost  amounts  to  an  agreeable 
surprise.  With  regard  to  the  composition  of  a  letter,  it  should 
always  be  remembered  that  if  it  has  a  reason  for  being  written, 
this  fact  should  not  be  lost  sight  of  or  over-weighted  with  a  mass 
of  extraneous  matter.  It  is  also  idle  to  devote  the  first  paragraph 
of  a  letter  to  trivial  excuses  for  not  having  written  sooner,  when  a 
still  longer  delay  might  have  been  allowed  to  elapse  if  it  suited  the 
convenience  of  the  writer ;  still,  when  a  letter  requires  an  imme- 
diate answer,  it  is  a  matter  of  politeness  to  give  the  reason 
for  the  delay,  but  this  should  be  explained  without  circumlocution. 
It  is  when  girls  are  merging  into  womanhood  and  boys  into  man- 
hood, that  want  of  fluency  in  letter  writing  is  acutely  felt;  and  this 
awkwardness  often  continues  in  after  years.  Some  are  more  con- 
scious than  others  of  their  deficiencies  in  this  respect,  and  to  write 
a  letter  or  even  a  simple  note  is  to  them  a  trouble  and  a  bore ; 
later  on  they  take  refuge  in  the  fact  that  they  are  bad  correspond- 
ents, and  they  use  this  statement  as  an  excuse  for  writing  very 
short  letters  or  for  not  writing  at  all.  Many  people  confess  when 
obliged  to  write  letters,  that  they  have  no  idea  what  to  say  be- 
yond the  preliminary  phrase ;  they  are  afraid  to  trust  their  pen 
with  their  thoughts,  for  fear  of  getting  out  of  their  depth  and  of 
not  being  able  to  recover  themselves  without  becoming  more  or 
less  involved  and  hazy  as  to  grammar.  A  well-expressed  letter 
creates  a  pleasant  feeling  of  gratification ;  it  is  often  read  twice, 
and  if  not  put  by  amongst  other  missives,  considered  worth  keep- 
ing, it  is  destroyed  with  some  regret.  One  charm  of  a  good 
letter  lies,  perhaps,  in  its  being  personally  considerate;  another, 
in  its  clearly  calling  to  mind  the  individuality  of  the  writer. 

Inquiries  after  health  should  be  made  with  discretion,  always 
remembering  that  some  are  thin-skinned  on  this  subject,  while 
others  like  to  discuss  it  at  length.  A  clever  writer  keeps  his 
affairs  very  much  in  the  background  unless  they  are  at  a  crisis, 
when  they  would  of  course  possess  interest  of  an  unusual  char- 
acter ;  otherwise  to  relate  trivial  matters  for  the  sake  of  having 
something  to  say  is  foolish  and  egotistical.  In  these  days,  people 
do  not  accuse  themselves  of  writing  stupid,  dull,  or  uninteresting 
letters,  as  their  friends  are  only  too  likely  to  take  their  confes- 
sions at  their  own  valuation  and  to  endorse  the  written  verdict ; 


SOCIAL    INTERCOURSE  175 

while  the  affectation  of  laying  the  blame  of  bad  writing  en  pens, 
ink,  and  paper  is  now  considered  as  a  most  inadequate  and  absurd 
excuse.  In  answering,  it  is  a  proof  of  a  poor  imagination  to 
minutely  paraphrase  each  paragraph  of  the  letter  under  treat- 
ment. Questions  naturally  demand  answers,  and  important  facts 
call  for  comment ;  but  trivial  remarks  and  observations,  perhaps 
pleasantly  put,  should  not  be  returned  to  their  author  with  poor 
platitudes  attached  to  them. 

Letter-writing  may  be  said  to  be  divided  into  notes  and  letters. 
Formerly  a  note  written  in  the  third  person  invariably  commenced 
with,  "Mrs.  Jones  presents  her  compliments  to  Mrs.  Brown" ;  but 
now  the  words  "  presents  compliments"  have  fallen  into  dis- 
favor; and,  whenever  any  other  opening  phrase  can  be  readily 
substituted,  it  is  in  better  taste  to  use  it.  Indeed,  it  may  be 
taken  as  a  rule  that  compliments  are  only  presented  to  a  com- 
plete stranger,  or  officially,  or  professionally  speaking;  and  when- 
ever an  acquaintanceship  exists,  even  of  the  slightest  possible 
character,  other  expressions  are  used  in  preference  to  the  words 
"presents  her  compliments."  The  nature  of  the  note  itself  would 
probably  determine  the  most  appropriate  expression  wherewith  to 
commence  it. . 

There  are  few  people  careless  or  ignorant  enough  to  lapse  from 
the  third  person  into  the  first  in  the  course  of  a  short  note ;  but 
still  it  is  worth  guarding  against.  Notes  are  principally  confined 
to  the  briefest  of  communications,  as  the  frequent  and  necessary 
repetition  of  the  pronouns — she  and  her,  for  instance — or  the  sur- 
names of  the  writer  and  recipient  of  the  note  becomes  tedious ; 
and  when  it  is  imperative  to  write  in  the  third  person,  it  is  most 
desirable  to  construct  each  sentence  with  a  due  regard  to  an 
extravagant  use  of  pronouns,  and  never  at  any  time  to  resort  to 
the  vulgar  expedient  of  attempting  a  sort  of  compromise  by  mak- 
ing the  initial  letter  of  the  writer  and  of  the  person  written  to  do 
duty  for  their  respective  names  and  surnames. 

It  is  observable  that  a  cramped  style,  or  a  small  Italian  hand- 
writing, is  no  longer  in  vogue,  and,  when  seen,  appears  very  much 
out  of  date.  The  prevailing  mode  of  writing  is  bold  and  free.  A 
frequent  use  of  capitals  is  also  indulged  in,  which  gives  a  dash  of 
originality  and  spirit  to  a  letter  when  not  over-done. 

It  used  to  be  an  idea  that  to  underline  words  in  a  letter  was 
rather  bad  style ;  but  now,  if  a  writer  wishes  to  be  very  emphatic, 


176  SOCIAL    INTERCOURSE 

or  to  call  particular  attention  to  any  remark,  an  additional  stroke 
of  the  pen  is  not  objected  to ;  it  is  a  liberty  not  to  be  taken,  how- 
ever, when  writing  to  those  with  whom  one  is  on  ceremony. 

Many  people  experience  a  certain  difficulty  in  the  choice  of  a 
conventional  term  with  which  to  conclude  a  ceremonious  letter, 
and  it  must  be  admitted  that  there  is  not  much  variety  at  com- 
mand, "Yours  truly,"  "Yours  sincerely,"  "Yours  faithfully," 
"Yours  obediently,"  with  the  addition  perhaps  of  the  adverb 
"very,"  being  the  principal  formulas  in  use;  and  it  is  on  the 
whole  immaterial  whether  "truly"  or  "sincerely"  is  employed 
when  writing  to  friends.  The  affectionate  expressions  addressed 
to  still  dearer  friends  and  relations  are  left  to  one's  personal  feel- 
ings, and  yet  many  devoted  husbands  make  use  of  the  cold, 
formal  words  "Yours  truly,"  when  writing  to  their  wives,  in 
preference  to  any  more  endearing  phrase. 

In  order  not  to  conclude  a  letter  too  abruptly,  it  is  usual,  before 
the  words  "Yours  truly,"  to  add  one  or  other  of  such  phrases  as 
these:  "Believe  me,  dear  Mrs.  Jones,"  or  "I  remain,  dear  Mrs. 
Jones,"  or  "Believe  me,  dear  Mrs.  Jones,  with  kind  regards," 
and  this  gives  to  a  letter  a  certain  finish  and  completeness  which 
would  otherwise  be  wanting. 

An  error  of  punctuation  in  a  letter  will  often  cause  a  sentence 
or  paragraph  to  be  misunderstood,  and  made  to  convey  the 
reverse  of  what  was  intended. 

Question  marks  should  not  be  omitted  from  a  letter  when  ques- 
tions are  asked,  though  many  consider  it  a  waste  of  time  to  use 
them.  An  exclamation  point,  when  required,  materially  assists 
the  clearer  understanding  of  a  passage,  which  without  it  might 
not  possess  so  emphatic  a  meaning. 

Another  practice  of  the  past,  now  happily  discarded,  is  that  of 
crossing  letters;  only  a  school  girl,  nowadays,  would  cross  and 
recross  a  sheet  of  writing  paper,  and  two  sheets  of  paper  are  used 
if  one  sheet  will  not  contain  all  that  is  to  be  said.  If  half  the 
second  sheet  of  paper  is  left  blank  it  is  not  torn  off,  a  whole  sheet 
being  more  convenient  to  hold  and  to  fold,  and  if  a  few  last  words 
are  necessary  for  the  completion  of  a  letter  they  are  written  on 
the  margin  and  not  across  the  writing  on  the  face  of  the  pages. 

In  social  correspondence  it  is,  often,  considered  good  form  to 
write  on  the  first  and  third  pages  of  a  sheet  of  note  paper,  leaving 
the  second  and  fourth  pages  blank,  or  to  write  on  the  fourth  and 


SOCIAL    INTERCOURSE 


'77 


first  pages,  leaving  the  other  two  unwritten  upon.  This  is  done 
for  the  convenience  of  having  the  letters  written  without  using  a 
blotting  pad.  A  postscript  was  formerly  supposed  to  convey  the 
pith  or  gist  of  a  lady's  letter — a  poor  compliment,  it  must  be  con- 
fessed, to  her  intelligence ;  it  is  now  considered  a  vulgarism  to  put 
P.  S.  at  the  bottom  of  a  letter  containing  the  few  last  words;  if 
something  is  remembered  when  the  letter  is  concluded  that  should 
have  been  said,  it  is  added  without  the  two  capitals  in  question. 

In  addressing  envelopes,  the  address  should  be  written  legibly  in 
the  center  of  the  envelope,  and  not  run  off  into  the  corner,  leaving 
ft  third  of  the  envelope  blank. 


CHAPTER  II 

REQUESTING  OR  GRANTING   INTRODUCTIONS, 
FAVORS,   ETC. 

261.  From  a  Gentleman  to  the  American  Minister  at 
Foreign  Court,  Requesting  a  Presentation. 

Mr.  R.  S.  Rowland  begs  to  solicit  the  honor  of  a  presentation  to 

His  Majesty  the  King  of  R — j ,  through  the  kind  offices  of  the 

American  Minister,  Hon.  Matthew  D.  Clay. 

Mr.  Robert  S.  Howland  was  presented  at  the  Court  of  St.  James 
by  Ambassador  Foster,  on  March  23d,  19 — . 

Hotel  de  France,  B , 

January  3,  19 — . 

262.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

American  Legation, 

B ,  January  4,  19—. 

Robert  S.  Howland,  Esq., 
Hotel  de  France. 
DEAR  SIR:— 

I  am  instructed  by  the  United  States  Minister 
to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  letter  of  yesterday's  date, 
requesting  the  honor  of  presentation  to  His  Majesty  the  King, 
and  I  beg  to  inform  you  in  reply,  that  your  name  has  been 

entered  on  the  list  for  presentation  at  the  R Court  on  the 

next  opportunity. 

I  remain, 

Yours  obediently, 

PHILIP  LIVINGSTON, 
Secretary  to  the  U.  S.  Legation. 


263.  A  General  Letter  of  Introduction. 

T ,  November  14,  19 — . 

To  Whom  It  May  Concern:— 

The  bearer,  Mr.  Phillip  Allen  Taylor,  of  this  city,  having 
retired  from  a  business  that  has  proved  eminently  successful,  is 
about  to  enter  upon  an  extensive  tour  of  travel.  It  has  been  for 

178 


INTRODUCTIONS,     FAVORS,    ETC.  179 

many  years  a  cherished  dream  of  his  to  visit,  when  released  from 
business  cares,  the  chief  cities  of  his  native  land,  and  especially  to 
wander  through  the  majestic  scenery  of  the  far  West.  His  plan 
has  extended  of  late,  and,  unless  the  fatigues  of  travel  should 
prove  detrimental  to  his  health,  he  may  visit  China  and  Japan, 
spend  a  winter  in  India,  and  return  home  by  way  of  Europe.  If 
in  the  course  of  these  wanderings  he  should  be  fortunate  enough 
to  meet  any  of  my  numerous  friends,  especially  in  Florence, 
Paris,  London  or  Glasgow,  I  trust  this  note  will  serve  as  a  kindly 
introduction.  Mr.  Taylor  is  a  whole-souled  gentleman,  and  any 
kindness  shown  to  him  I  shall  consider  a  kindness  shown  to 
myself. 

Your  ever  faithful  friend, 

FRANCIS  THURMAN  BOYD. 


264.  From  a  Lady  Asking  for  a  Letter  of  Introduction. 

N ,  December  28,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Leonard:— 

I  make  bold  to  ask  if  you  would  mail  me  an  introduction  to 
Mrs.  Johnson  Lathrop;  I  believe  she  is  a  great  friend  of  yours, 
and  should  much  like  to  know  her.  She  gives  charming  musical 
parties,  and  has  a  large  acquaintance  among  distinguished  artists 
and  literary  people. 

As  you  know,  we  came  to  this  city  to  reside  permanently,  and, 
especially  for  my  daughter's  sake,  I  should  like  our  circle  of 
acquaintances  to  broaden  in  the  right  direction. 

Accept  my  heartfelt  thanks  in  advance,  and,  with  kind  regards 
to  yourself  and  Mr.  Leonard, 
Believe  me, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

MARY  DINSMORE. 


265.  Asking  a  Lady  to  call  on  a  Person  Who  is  a  Stranger 

to  Her. 

S ,  September  10,  19. 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Graham: — 

Some  very  charming  people,  friends  of  ours,  Mr.  and  Mrs. 

Symonds,  have  taken  a  house  in  C ,  No.  10  B Square, 

with  a  view  of  residing  there  permanently,  and  I  should  think  it 
very  kind  if  you  would  call  on  them.     At  present  they  find 


l8o  INTRODUCTIONS,    FAVORS,    ETC. 

C ,  socially  speaking,  rather  dull,  as  they  know  hardly  any 

one  in  the  city,  and  it  would  make  all  the  difference  to  them  if 
they  had  a  few  pleasant  acquaintances  among  your  best  people. 
I  thought  if  you  could  show  them  any  civility  you  would  perhaps 
do  so.  You  cannot  fail  to  like  Mrs.  Symonds;  she  is  a  very 
pleasant  woman,  and  she  has  written  to  me  to  ask  if  I  had  any 
friends  in  your  city  I  could  introduce  her  to. 
With  kind  regards,  believe  me, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

ELMIRA  WHITE. 


266.  From  a  Lady  Asking  for  Letters  of  Introduction. 

A ,  November  7,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Lloyd: — 

We  expect  to  start  for  Europe  next  week,  and  intend  passing 
the  winter  abroad.  I  think  you  told  me  you  knew  a  great  many 
people  there,  and  I  should  be  most  grateful  for  one  or  two  letters 
of  introduction  to  any  French  or  American  families,  as  it  would 
make  our  stay  so  much  more  agreeable  if  we  made  some  pleasant 
acquaintances  in  Europe.  Are  you  thinking  of  going  to  the  south 
of  France  this  winter?  or  do  you  feel  strong  enough  to  stand  the 
Boston  climate?  I  expect  we  shall  find  it  very  cold  in  Paris ;  is 
this  your  experience?  Remember  me  kindly  to  Mr.  Lloyd,  and 
Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

HENRIETTA  STONEBURY. 


267.  From  a  Lady  Introducing  a  Young  Married  Couple 
to  a  Friend. 

M ,  December  3,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Helen : — 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Anthony  Lane,  dear  friends  of  ours,  will  prob- 
ably visit  S ,  on  their  wedding  tour,  and  I  have  taken  the 

liberty  of  asking  them  to  call  upon  you  during  their  stay  in  your 
city.     They  are  very  charming  young  people  whom  you  will  be 


INTRODUCTIONS,    FAVORS,    ETC.  l8l 

delighted  to  know.  I  have  spoken  §o  often  to  them  of  you,  and 
your  dear  husband  and  children,  that  they  will  scarcely  deem 
themselves  strangers.  Any  kindness  you  may  be  able  to  show  to 
them  during  their  brief  visit  I  shall  accept  as  shown  to  myself. 

We  trust  you  are  all  well.     M is  not  very  far  from  S , 

and  yet,  for  all  chances  of  our  meeting,  it  seems  as  though  we 
might  just  as  well  be  millions  of  miles  apart.     Give  my  love  to 
all  your  happy  household  and  believe  me, 
Dear  Helen, 

Yours  as  ever, 

ELFRIDA  DUNLAP. 


268.  From  a  Father  Introducing  His  Son  to  a  Minister. 

M ,  October  10,  19—. 

Rev.  Alexander  McNaughton, 

N . 

Reverend  and  Dear  Sir: — 

Will  you,  very  kindly  pardon  the  liberty  I  take 
in  introducing  my  youngest  son,  Matthew,  to  your  notice?  There 
is  no  doubt  in  my  mind  that  the  father's  heart  within  you  will 
understand  and  appreciate  my  solicitude  on  his  behalf.  Mat- 
thew has  always  been  a  good  and  obedient  boy,  but  he  is  now 
leaving  the  quietude  and  shelter  of  a  country  home  to  face  the 
varied  and  testing  experiences  of  life  in  a  great  city.  We  have  no 
fear  but  he  will  conduct  himself  in  a  manner  worthy  of  his  home 
and  of  his  early  training ;  at  the  same  time  I  feel  it  my  duty  to  do 
all  in  my  power  to  secure  for  him  the  best  influences  and  the 
happiest  surroundings;  and  have,  therefore,  allowed  myself  to 
send  him  directly  to  you.  He  has  been  urged  by  me  to  attend 
your  church,  and  we  shall  all  be  very  grateful  if  you  will  introduce 
him  to  the  young  people  of  your  congregation.  He  will  probably 
feel  lonely  for  a  little  while,  but  my  mind  will  be  much  at  rest 
concerning  him  if  I  know  that  he  is  forming  wise  and  helpful 
friendships.  I  shall  be  very  grateful  for  any  kindness  shown  to 
my  boy  as  he  starts  out  to  fight  the  battle  of  life. 

With  heartfelt  thanks  in  advance,  I  remain,  dear  sir, 
Very  truly  yours, 

GEORGE  D.  MOORK. 


l8a  INTRODUCTIONS,    FAVORS,    ETC. 

269.  From  a  Lady  Introducing  a  Friend  to  an  old  School 
Mate. 

E ,  November  7,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Susan: — 

Mrs.  Henry  Pursell — whose  charming  friendship  I  very 
highly  prize — is  about  to  remove  from  our  pleasant  suburb  to 
your  beautiful  city.  I  take  this  opportunity  of  commending  her 
and  her  husband,  and  their  delightful  little  family,  to  your 
kindly  sympathy.  We  have  not  forgotten  how  gentle  and  consid- 
erate you  always  were  to  the  new  pupils  at  dear  old  B 

Academy.      What  a  comfort  you  were  to  the  homesick  and  the 

heartsick!     Mrs.  Pursell  will  be  an  entire  stranger  in  S . 

I  therefore  bespeak  on  her  behalf  a  touch  of  that  old-time  sym- 
pathy and  love. 

Ever  yours  faithfully, 

ETHEL  WILLIAMS. 


270.   From  a  Gentleman  Introducing  a  College  Chum  to 
a  Sister. 

P ,  October  20,  19 — , 

My  Dear  Mabel:— 

Mr  William  Perry,  the  bearer  of  this  note,  is  one  of  my  old 
college  chums.  At  college  we  were  regarded  as  "Damon  and 
Pythias,"  though  which  was  Damon  and  which  was  Pythias  I 
hardly  know.  Anyway,  you  will  find  Mr.  Perry  as  noble  a  fellow 
as  ever  ate  three  meals  a  day.  Give  him  a  hearty  welcome  for  my 
sake,  and  you  will  soon  regard  him  very  highly  for  his  own. 

I  assure  you  that  in  showing  kindness  to  my  old  classmate  you 
are  liable  to  entertain  an  angel  unawares.  Give  my  regards  to  that 
"model  husband"  of  yours,  and  tell  my  hopeful  nephew  that  the 

next  time  I  come  to  C I  will  bring  him  either  a  jackknife  or 

a  Bible — perhaps  both. 

Your  loving  brother, 

ROBERT. 


INTRODUCTIONS,     FAVORS,    ETC.  183 

271.  From  a  Lady  Asking  for  a  Subscription  to  some 
Charity. 

E ,-May  23,  19 — . 

Campbell  Astorbilt,  Esq. 
DEAR  SIR:— 

I  know  how  generous  you  are  in  subscribing  to  any 
deserving  charity,  and  also  know  how  many  are  the  claims  made 
upon  you  for  assistance ;  but  I  will  venture  to  ask  for  a  subscrip- 
tion for  our  Firemen's  Children's  Orphan  Asylum,  which  is  very 
much  in  need  of  support.  Allow  me  to  add,  that  the  institution  is 
a  most  excellent  one,  and  that  we  should  be  very  grateful  for  any 
donation,  however  small,  as  there  is  a  great  deal  of  illness  about 
just  now,  and  the  Infirmary  is  not  equal  to  the  demands  made 
upon  it.  I  take  the  greatest  interest  in  this  charity,  and  am  doing 
all  in  my  power  trying  to  help  it  on  in  its  beneficent  work. 

Hoping  that  this  request  will  not  be  judged  impertinent,  and 
trusting  in  your  kindness  of  heart, 
I  remain, 

Yours  sincerely, 

MARY  FENTON  FAIR, 

President  F.  C.  O.  A. 


272.  From  a  Young    Lady  to   a   Girl  Friend  Asking  for  Her 
Photograph. 

O ,  August  7,  19 — . 

Dear  Florence  :— 

I  have  just  been  admiring  such  a  nice  photograph  of  you  in 
Mrs.  Dutton's  book;  she  said  it  had  been  taken  quite  recently. 
May  I  ask  for  a  copy  before  you  have  given  them  all  away?  and, 
in  exchange,  will  send  you  one  of  my  last  new  photographs  in 
a  few  days.  Mrs.  Dutton  is  very  good-natured,  and  often  asks 
me  to  afternoon  tea. 

Mamma  is  waiting  for  me  to  go  out  with  her,  so,  with  love, 
Believe  me, . 

Affectionately  yours, 

MARIETTA  DUNLAP. 


184  INTRODUCTIONS,    FAVORS,    ETC. 

273.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

B ,  August  12,  19 — . 

Dear  Marietta: — 

Am  so  sorry  all  my  new  photographs  had  been  given  away 
before  I  received  your  letter,  otherwise  would  have  sent  you  one 
with  pleasure.  I  intend  ordering  a  few  more  copies  as  soon  as  we 
return  to  town,  and  will  not  forget  to  let  you  have  one.  Please 
send  me  yours.  I  am  so  glad  you  like  Mrs.  Button ;  she  is,  as  you 
know,  a  great  [friend  of  mine,  but  we  have  not  seen  each  other 
for  some  time.  Give  her  my  love  and  with  much  to  yourself, 

Believe  me, 

Yours  affectionately, 

-  FLORENCE  BROWN. 

274.   Asking  a  Gentleman  to  be  Godfather. 

T ,  March  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Graham : — 

I  cannot  tell  you  how  much  we  should  be  gratified  if  you 
would  consent  to  be  godfather  to  our  little  son.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Richardson  have  promised  to  be  the  other  sponsors,  and  the 
christening  is  to  take  place  on  the  23d  of  April,  at  St.  Mark's 
Church.  We  intend  having  a  luncheon  party  on  that  day  in  honor 
of  the  event.  Should  you  be  too  much  engaged  to  be  present,  my 
husband  would  represent  you  at  the  church,  and  perhaps  you 
would  be  able  to  look  in  at  the  luncheon.  We  should  be  much 
pleased  to  see  you. 
With  our  united  kind  regards,  believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

KATHERINE  DRED  WOODS. 


275.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

N ,  March  12,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Woods  :— 

Shall  be  most  happy  to  act  as  godfather  to  your  little  boy 
since  you  and  your  husband  are  ^kind  enough  to  wish  it,  and  I 
hope  he  will  grow  to  be  as  good  a  fellow  as  his  father.  You  must 
not  expect  me  at  the  church,  but  will  try  and  drop  in  in  the 
afternoon. 
With  kind  regards  to  you  both, 

Very  truly  yours, 

DONALD  GRAHAM. 


INTRODUCTIONS,     FAVORS,     ETC.  185 

276.  Asking  a  Lady  to  be  Godmother. 

L ,  July  ii,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Ronalds: — 

It  would  be  a  great  pleasure  to  us  if  you  would  be  god- 
mother to  our  little  girl ;  we  have  named  her  after  you,  Katherine 
Mabel.  She  is  a  sweet  little  thing,  and  I  shall  be  so  proud  to 
show  her  to  you.  My  sister,  Mrs.  Mabel  Phillips,  is  also  to  be 
godmother,  and  my  husband's  brother  will  be  godfather.  I  will 
let  you  know  what  day  the  christening  will  take  place  as  soon 
as  it  is  decided. 

With  kindest  remembrances  from  my  husband  and  myself, 
Believe  me, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

SYLVIA  LAMONT. 


277.  Unfavorable  Answer  to  the  Above. 

A ,  July  12,  19—. 

Dear  Mrs.  Lamont: — 

I  hope  that  you  will  not  think  me  unkind  if  I  ask  you  to 
excuse  me  from  undertaking  the  office  of  godmother  to  your  little 
daughter.  The  truth  is,  I  do  not  feel  justified  in  incurring  what, 
in  my  mind,  is  too  great  a  responsibility.  I  have  always  thought 
that  the  parents  and  near  relatives  of  a  child  are  most  fitted  for 
the  post  of  sponsors,  as,  on  account  of  their  position  they  have  a 
better  opportunity  of  fulfilling  the  promises  made  in  its  name  than 
those  less  near  to  it  could  possibly  have.  Other  people,  no  doubt, 
think  differently,  but  these  are  my  views,  and  you  will  not,  I 
am  sure,  be  offended  at  my  thus  frankly  expressing  them.  Shall 
hope  to  come  and  see  you  soon,  and  your  dear  little  girl. 
Believe  me, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

KATHARINE  RONALDS. 

278.  To  a  Lady,  After  a  First  Visit  to  Her  Country 
Home. 

N ,  September  20,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Rice  :— 

How  very  much  we  enjoyed  our  little  visit  to  you 
last  week,  and  the  charming  drives  and  walks  we  had!  My 
husband  says  he  does  not  know  when  he  has  spent  a  pleasanter 


l86  INTRODUCTIONS,    FAVORS,    ETC. 

time,  he  is  so  fond  of  the  country  and  country  amusements,  and  1 
assure  you  we  both  thoroughly  appreciated  your  tireless  hos- 
pitality and  kindness.  I  had  heard  so  much  of  your  place  and 
was  quite  anxious  to  see  it ;  it  really  is  one  of  the  prettiest  country 
homes  I  have  ever  seen,  and  how  perfect  you  have  made  the  villa ! 
Everybody  calls  it  a  triumph  of  good  taste.  We  are  going  into 
Berkshire  in  October  to  pay  a  few  visits,  but  we  shall  be  in  town 
again  early  in  November,  to  remain  there  for  the  whole  of  the 
winter,  and  I  hope,  if  you  think  of  coming  up  before  Christmas, 
you  will  let  me  know. 

Remember    us    kindly  to    Mr.    Rice,   and   believe    me,   with 
renewed  thanks, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

ALMA  STIRLING  WHITE. 


279.  From  a  Gentleman  to  His  Pastor,  asking  Him  to 
Visit  His  Sick  Mother. 

15  Ellis  Avenue, 

C ,  April  10,  19. 

Dear  Mr.  Tillotson:— 

I  am  grieved  to  have  to  inform  3*011  that  my  mother  is  very 
seriously  ill.  She  begs  me  to  say  it  would  be  a  great  comfort 
if  you  would  come  and  read  a  little  with  her,  if  you  could  spare 
the  time.  In  any  case,  I  should  be  very  glad  to  think  she  had 
seen  you,  as  it  is  her  earnest  wish  to  enjoy  this  privilege. 

Faithfully  yours, 

ARTHUR  BISBEE. 


280.  From  a  Gentleman  to  a  Minister,  Requesting  His 
Immediate  Presence. 

O ,  December  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Doctor  Bellows:— 

Will  you  do  me  the  favor  to  come  to  my  house  immediately 
for  the  purpose  of  baptizing  our  little  boy,  who  has  just  been  given 
up  by  the  physicians.  We  are  very  anxious  to  have  him  bap. 
tized,  as  I  fear  there  is  not  the  faintest  hope  of  his  recovery. 

Faithfully  yours, 

HENRY  BRITTON. 


INTRODUCTIONS,    FAVORS,    ETC.  187 

281.  To  a  Minister  Respecting  an  Application  for  Assistance. 

F ,  February  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Vane: — 

It  would  be  most  kind  of  you  to  inform  me,  in  strict  confi- 
dence, if  you  know  anything  of  a  Mrs.  Jessica  Turner ;  she  has 
applied  to  me  in  writing  for  assistance,  but  I  make  a  point,  if  pos- 
sible, of  ascertaining  how  far  the  person  applying  for  help  is 
deserving,  as  I  do  not  approve  of  indiscriminate  charity,  consider- 
ing it  likely  to  do  more  harm  than  good.  Perhaps  I  had  better 
send  you  her  letter,  and  if  you  are  not  personally  acquainted  with 
her,  would  you  oblige  me  by  making  inquiries  among  your  par- 
ishioners? 

Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

GRACE  TAYLOR  SANFORD. 


282.  From  a  Lady  to  Her  Pastor,  Concerning  a  School  Treat. 

Hawthorne  Villa, 

August  10,  19 — . 
My  Dear  Pastor: — 

I  have  been  informed  by  one  of  my  fellow  church-members, 
Mrs.  Dudley,  that  you  propose  giving  a  treat  to  the  children  of 
the  Sunday  school.  It  shall  give  me  much  pleasure  to  place  my 
grounds  and  the  adjoining  field  at  your  disposal  for  that  purpose, 
and  I  will  be  happy  to  provide  a  substantial  tea  for  the  teachers 
and  the  ladies  connected  with  the  school.  With  compliments 
to  yourself  and  your  dear  wife, 

Believe  me, 

Yours  very  truly, 
LUCY  HALDENK. 

283.  To  a  Young  Lady,  Presenting  Her  with  Flowers. 

N ,  December  12,  19 — . 

Dear  Miss  Eustis: — 

May  I  have  the  great  pleasure  of  offering  you  the  accom- 
panying flowers?    I  have  chosen  red  roses  with  long  stems,  as  you 
intimated,  in  my  presence,  that  you  preferred  them  to  any  other. 
Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

WARD  MCVEAGH. 


l88  INTRODUCTIONS,     FAVORS,    ETC. 

284.  From  a  Gentleman  to  a  Lady  Sending  Her  a  Song. 

N ,  December  20,  19-^. 

Dear  Miss  Eustis: — 

It  gives  me  great  pleasure  to  send  you  a  new  song  heard  the 
other  evening,  and  which,  I  think,  you  will  like.  I  fancy  it  will 
suit  your  voice  very  well,  and  shall  look  forward  to  the  pleasure  of 
hearing  you  sing  it. 

Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

WARD  MCVEAGH. 


285.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

N ,  December  21,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  McVeagh:— 

A  thousand  thanks  for  the  song  you  were  so  kind  as  to  send 
me ;  have  tried  it  over  and  like  it  immensely.    Was  it  very  well 
sung  when  you  heard  it,  and  shall  I   be  able  to  do  justice  to  it 
in  your  opinion,  when  I  have  the  pleasure  of  singing  it  to  you? 
Believe  me,  in  the  meantime, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

ELEANOR  EUSTICE. 


286.  From  an  Elderly  Gentleman  to  a  Young  Lady,  Offering 
Her  a  Birthday  Present. 

S ,  October  10,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Miss  Stilton:— 

With  my  most  hearty  wishes  for  many  happy  returns  of 
your  birthday,  please  accept  a  little  souvenir  which  I  hope  you  will 
like ;  at  your  age  a  birthday  is  an  event  to  celebrate  and  to  rejoice 
over ;  at  mine  it  has  a  different  signification,  and  reminds  me  that 
I  am  one  year  nearer  the  end ;  in  youth,  one  does  not  dwell  upon 
this  thought,  but  rather  upon  what  the  bright  future  has  in  store. 
May  it  contain  everything  for  you  that  your  dearest  friends  could 
wish. 

With  love,  believe  me, 

Your  affectionate  old  friend, 

JAMES  T.  SWINBURNE. 


INTRODUCTIONS,    FAVORS,    ETC.  189 

287.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

S ,  October  12,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Swinburne : — 

In  my  surprise  and  delight  on  receiving  your  lovely 
present,  I  hardly  know  how  to  thank  you  enough  for  it.  How  kind 
of  you  to  remember  my  birthday !  Believe  in  my  earnest  gratitude 
for  all  your  good  wishes.  Among  my  several  nice  gifts,  there 
is  none  I  shall  value  more  than  yours,  dear  friend.  We  are  to 
have  a  little  dance  to-night  in  honor  of  the  event,  and  I  shall  have 
the  pleasure  of  showing  these  beautiful  tokens  of  friendship  to  my 
particular  chums. 

With  renewed  thanks,  believe  me, 

Affectionately  yours, 

DAISY  STILTON. 


288,  From  a  Gentleman  to  a   Lady,  Enclosing  Tickets  to  an 
Entertainment. 

C ,  November  27,  19 — . 

Dear  Miss  Landon : — 

I  have  secured  two]  tickets  for  the  concert  at  the  A 

Theater  on  Saturday  next,  in  the  hope  that  you  may  perhaps  like 
to  make  use  of  them,  and  allow  me  to  be  your  escort  on  that  occa- 
sion.    It  is  to  be  a  very  good  one,  and  well  worth  going  to. 
Please  give  my  kind  regards  to  Mrs.  Landon,  and  believe  me, 

Faithfully  yours, 

ARNOLD  DWIGHT.. 


289.  Answer  v£  the  Above  (Acceptance). 

%  C ,  November  28,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Dwight: — 

Thank  you  so  much  for  your  invitation  to  the  next  Philhar- 
monic concert.     I  shall  be  very  pleased  to  go  with  you  to  the 

A Theater,  on  Saturday  next.     You  will   find  me  ready  to 

start  at  7: 15  that  evening.     Again  thanking  you, 
Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

MARIETTA  LANDON. 


1 90  INTRODUCTIONS,     FAVORS,    ETC. 

290.  Answer  to  No.  288  (Regrets). 

C ,  November  28,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  D wight: 

To  my  great  disappointment,  I  cannot  accept  your  very 
kind  invitation  for  next  Saturday,  on  account  of  a  prior  engage- 
ment entered  into  over  a  week  ago.  Doubtless  it  would  have 
proved  a  most  enjoyable  evening.  Hoping  that  you  will  not  be 
long  before  calling  upon  us,  and  with  renewed  thanks  and  regrets, 
Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

MARIETTA  LANDON. 


291.  To  an  Invalid,  from  a  Stranger,  Offering  Her  Fruit  and 

Flowers. 

C ,  November  3,  19 — . 

Mrs.  Grancy  has  the  pleasure  of  sending  Miss  Weymouth  some 
early  California  grapes,  in  the  hope  that  they  may  be  acceptable, 
as  she  understands  Miss  Weymouth  is  a  great  invalid ;  she  also 
sends  her  a  few  flowers,  and  trusts  she  will  have  no  hesitation 
in  accepting  both  with  all  good  wishes  for  her  restoration  to 
health. 


292.  Answer  to  the  Abore. 

C ,  November  4,  19 — . 

Miss  Weymouth  is  very  grateful  to  Mrs.  Grancy  for  her  lovely 
present.  The  flowers  are  indeed  beautiful,  and  the  grapes  most 
delicious;  she  begs  to  send  her  best  thanks  for  this  thoughtful 
attention.  She  fears  that  there  is  but  a  very  remote  prospect  of 
her  being  restored  to  health,  but  she  is  just  as  much  obliged  to 
Mrs.  Grancy  for  her  good  wishes. 


INTRODUCTIONS,    FAVORS,    ETC.  Ipl 

293.  Asking  for  an  Invitation  to  a  Ball  for  a  Friend. 

S ,  March  24,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Deane: — 

If  your  invitation  list  is  not  already  filled  up,  might  I  ask 
you  if  you  would  give  me  a  card  for  Miss  Joyce,  the  daughter  of  a 
very  old  friend  of  mine?  She  much  wishes  to  come  to  your  ball, 
and  I  have  promised  to  ask  you  this  favor.  Should  you  be  able  to 
grant  it,  she  would  come  with  me. 

I  must  apologize  for  trespassing  on  your  kindness  in  this  matter, 
but  you  will  not  hesitate  to  refuse  if  your  list  is  already  overfull  as 
regards  ladies. 

Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours. 

MAUD  SILVERTON. 


294.  Unfavorable  Answer  to  the  Above. 

S ,  March  27,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Silverton: — 

To  my  extreme  regret,  I  cannot  send  the  card  you  request 
as  my  ball  list  is  filled  up  to  overflowing ;  indeed,  I  have  been 
obliged  to  leave  out  many  of  my  own  acquaintances  who  ought, 
really,  to  have  been  included. 

Should  I  have  any  refusals  at  the  last  moment,  I  will  let  you 
know,  but  fear  there  is  very  little  chance  of  it. 
Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

GABRIELLE  FORSYTH  DEANE. 


295.   From  a  Lady  asking  for  an  Invitation  to  a  Dancing  Party 
for  a  Gentleman. 

B ,  May  30,  19—. 

Dear  Mrs.  McLeod: — 

Would  you  do  me  the  pleasure  of  asking  Mr.  Edward  May 
to  your  dance?     He   just  told   my  husband  that   he  would  be 


IQ2  INTRODUCTIONS,    FAVORS,    ETC. 

charmed  to  attend  it  if  I  could  get  him  a  card,  and  as  he  is  very 
fond  of  dancing,  he  might  be  an  acquisition  should  you  be  short 
of  gentlemen. 

I  think  you  have  met  his  married  sister,  Mrs.  Dinsmore,  at  my 
house ;  she  is  an  intimate  friend  of  mine. 
Believe  me, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

GERTRUDE  S.  BOYD. 


296.  Asking  for  an  Invitation  to  Amateur  Theatricals  for 
Visiting  Friends. 

N ,  May  18,  19—. 

Dear  Mrs.  Leonard: — 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Read,  of  S ,  who  are  old  friends  of 

mine,  are  visiting  at  my  house  now,  and  have  heard  so  much  of 
your  forthcoming  theatricals  that  if  you  could  spare  them  an  in- 
vitation, I  know  they  would  greatly  appreciate  the  favor.  Thank- 
ing you  sincerely  in  advance, 

Believe  me, 

Faithfully  yours, 

CAROLINE  DAWSON. 


"  DON'T  FORGET  TO  WRITE  OFTEN.1 


CHAPTER   III 

CONGRATULATIONS,*  CONDOLENCES,   RESIGNA- 
TIONS,   ETC. 

297.  From  a  Lady  Addressing  Birthday  Congratulations  to  a 

Friend. 

D ,  March  14,  19—. 

My  Dear  Old  Friend:— 

I  have  not  forgotten  that  the  i6th  of  March  is  the  anniver- 
sary of  your  birth.  I  should  not  like  the  day  to  pass  without 
assuring  you  of  my  deep  and  sincere  interest  in  all  that  concerns 
you.  Our  paths  lie  widely  apart,  but  just  such  occasions  serve 
as  happy  opportunities  for  the  interchange  of  kindly  feeling, 
and  the  revival  of  many  happy  memories.  I  hope  this  brief  note 
will  reach  you  on  the  i6th,  also  a  little  token  of  affectionate 
regard  which  I  have  wrought  with  my  own  hand.  Pray  accept 
it,  not  for  its  own  value,  but  for  the  sake  of  the  thoughts  it  rep- 
resents. 

Faithfully  yours, 

ELVIRA  JONES. 


298.  Condoling  with  a  Friend  about  His  Failure  in  Business. 

L ,  August  17,  19 — . 

My  Esteemed  Old  Friend:— 

We  were  exceedingly  pained  to  learn  from  the  newspapers  of 
yesterday  that,  after  a  long  struggle,  you  have  been  compelled  to 
yield  to  the  resistless  pressure  of  these  hard  times.  Success  in 
business  is  often  a  mere  accident  and  merits  little  praise,  and  in 
like  manner,  failure  in  business  is  often  the  sad  and  only  return 
for  a  long  and  patient  fight  against  tremendous  odds.  In  these 
days  of  merciless  competition,  the  spirit  of  fair  trading  seems  to 
be  almost  buried  out  of  sight.  It  is  no  longer  a  case  of  *  'the  sur- 

#  For  other  Betters  of  Congratulation,  see  pp.  98, 108, 150, 151,  153. 

193 


194    CONGRATULATIONS,   CONDOLENCES,    RESIGNATIONS 

vival  of  the  fittest,"  so  much  as  of  the  survival  of  "the  smartest" 
But  we  should  not  let  undeserved  defeat  bring  despair.  As  the 
poet  says: 

"Hope  springs  eternal  in  the  human  breast," 

and  I  most  sincerely  trust  there  are  brighter  days  in  store  for 
you.  We  feel  sure  you  can  have  nothing  to  blame  yourself  for  in 
these  reverses.  Everybody  who  knows  Alfred  Baker  knows  that 
he  is  the  soul  of  honor,  that  he  holds  integrity  by  the  right  hand 
and  by  the  left. 

I  exceedingly  regret  that  my  letter  must  be  one  of  words  only, 
and  wish  it  were  possible  to  ask  you  to  draw  upon  me  for  some 
useful,  helpful  amount.  But  that  is  utterly  beyond  my  power. 
Letters  are  not  of  much  value  in  such  a  crisis  as  you  are  now 
passing  through,  and  yet  we  could  not  keep  silent. 

Pray  accept  these  few  words  of  heartfelt  sympathy.  Be  brave ! 
Be  hopeful !  Better  days  will  come. 

Very  truly  yours, 

PHILLIP  SMITH. 


299.  Informing  a  Wife  of  the  Illness  of  Her  Husband. 

B ,  September  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Oldfield:— 

I  have  been  asked  by  your  husband  to  write  and  tell  you  he 
has  a  bad  attack  of  gout  and  cannot  use  his  right  arm ;  he  feels 
quite  helpless,  and  hopes  you  will  come  to  him  at  once.  We  are 
taking  every  care  of  him,  and  he  has  a  very  good  doctor,  but  of 
course  he  would  be  very  glad  to  have  you  with  him,  and  although 
we  have  not  yet  had  the  pleasure  of  meeting,  I  hope  you  will  not 
make  any  ceremony  about  staying  with  us  until  your  husband  is 
quite  well  again.  We  shall  be  very  pleased  to  see  you  in  spite  of 
the  unfortunate  circumstances  which  occasion  your  first  visit  to 
us.  With  best  regards  from  Mr.  Densmore  and  myself, 
Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

SYLVIA  DENSMORE. 


CONGRATULATIONS,   CONDOLENCES,   RESIGNATIONS    195 

300.  Informing  a  Gentleman  of  the  Illness  of  His  Wife. 

S ,  August  20,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Lord : — 

I  am  personally  unknown  to  you,  but  your  wife  is  a  great 
friend  of  mine,  and  on  calling  upon  her,  this  morning,  I  found 
that  she  was  seriously  ill.  Of  course,  you  ought  to  know  of  this 
at  once,  and  I  would  have  sent  a  telegram,  but  the  doctor  said 
there  was  no  immediate  danger,  and  that  you  had  better  be 
informed  of  her  illness  by  letter.  The  landlady  of  the  boarding 
house  where  she  is  staying  seems  very  attentive  and  kind,  still  it 
would  certainly  be  a  great  comfort  to  Mrs.  Lord  if  you  could 
bring  her  sister  down  with  you.  In  the  meantime,  I  will  do  all 
that  is  possible  for  her,  and  am  happy  to  say  she  has  the  best 
advice  our  place  can  furnish. 

Believe  me, 

Yours  sincerely, 

LINA  STEPNEY  GORE. 


301.  Informing  a  Married  Daughter  of  the  Illness  of  Her 
Mother. 

T ,  November  15,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Lester: — 

I  am  very  sorry  to  have  to  inform  you  that  your  mother  has 
caught  a  very  severe  cold ;  the  doctor  seems  anxious  about  her, 
and  says  it  is  an  attack  of  bronchitis.  She  has  been  in  bed  for  the 
last  three  days,  but  would  not  let  me  write  before  for  fear  of 
unnecessarily  alarming  you;  however,  to-day,  being  no  better, 
she  has  desired  me  to  do  so.  The  doctor  is  coming  again  to-mor- 
row, and  should  there  be  a  change  for  the  worse  I  will  send  you  a 
telegram  after  he  has  seen  her.  She  is  very  restless  at  night,  and 
cannot  be  persuaded  to  take  any  nourishment  beyond  a  little 
milk.  I  came  here  on  a  visit  last  week,  with  the  intention  of 
returning  home  yesterday,  but  did  not  like  to  leave  your  mother 
as  she  was  so  ill. 
With  kind  remembrances,  believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

IDA  SMYTHE. 


196    CONGRATULATIONS,   CONDOLENCES,   RESIGNATIONS 

302.  Inquiring  after  the  Health  of  a  Lady's  Husband. 

R ,  April  4,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Leverett : — 

I  sent  over  this  afternoon  to  inquire  after  Mr.  Leverett, 
and  was  very  sorry  indeed  to  hear  he  is  no  better,  and  that  you 
are  very  anxious  about  him;  but  I  trust  there  may  be  shortly 
some  improvement  in  his  condition.  Pray  do  not  think  of  an- 
swering this  note ;  I  merely  write  to  assure  you  of  my  sympathy, 
and  to  say  how  happy  it  would  make  me  to  be  of  use  to  you  in  any 
way ;  I  would  of  course  call  at  once  if  you  cared  to  see  me. 

With   kindest   regards,  and   very  best   wishes  for  your  good 
husband's  quick  recovery, 

Believe  me, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

ALVA  BELDEN. 


303.  Indirectly  Inquiring  after  the  Health  of  an  Invalid. 

C ,  June  10,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Keane:— 

I  heard  yesterday  for  the  first  time,  through  some  friends 

who  have  just  returned  home  from  P ,  that  your  sister  was 

seriously  ill  when  they  left  V ;  however,  I  hope  that  you  have 

received  a  better  report  of  her  during  the  last  few  days,  and  that 
there  is  no  further  cause  for  anxiety.  When  you  write  will  you 
say  everything  that  is  most  kind  from  me,  and  please  tell  her  I 
thought  it  best  not  to  trouble  her  with  a  letter  until  we  heard  how 
she  was,  as  we  know  how  trying  it  is  after  a  severe  illness  to  answer 
letters  of  inquiry. 

Believe  me, 

Yours  most  sincerely, 

ADA  YOUNG. 


CONGRATULATIONS,   CONDOLENCES,   RESIGNATIONS    197 

304.  Sympathizing  with  a  Confirmed  Invalid. 

S ,  August  27,  19—. 

Dear  Mrs.  Silverton  :— 

I  was  deeply  distressed  to  learn  from  your  niece,  Gertrude, 
of  your  continued  indisposition.  Had  hoped  that  by  this  time 
you  would  have  been  fully  restored  to  health.  But  the  ways  of 
Providence  are  inscrutable,  and  all  we  can  do  is  to  bow  in  sub- 
mission to  the  Divine  will,  assured  that  these  chastenings  of 
affliction  are  not  sent  in  anger,  but  are  proofs  of  a  loving  Father's 
care.  '  'His  paths  are  in  the  sea,  and  His  footsteps  are  in  the  deep 
waters."  He  causeth  "all  things  to  work  together  for  goocl"  to 
those  who  put  their  trust  in  Him.  But  I  need  not  remind  you  of 
these  sources  of  comfort  in  the  day  of  your  trial  and  sorrow. 
Your  long  experience  in  the  Christian  life  will  suggest  to  you  a 
thousand  secret  springs  of  gracious  consolation.  It  is  not  neces- 
sary to  assure  you  how  ardently  we  all  desire  your  speedy  return 
to  health.  With  tender  sympathy  and  many  earnest  prayers 
I  am,  dear  Mrs.  Silverton, 

Yours  affectionately, 

MARY  DINSMORE 


305.  From  a  Daughter,  Announcing  the  Death  of  Her  Mother. 

D ,  May  18,  19 — . 

Dear  Aunt  Mary : — 

You  must,  doubtless,  be  prepared  for  the  sad  news  I  have 
to  convey,  the  death  of  my  dearest,  most  precious  mother.  It 
took  place  yesterday  afternoon  at  four  o'clock.  Father  is  too 
broken-hearted  to  write  himself.  We  were  all  with  her,  and  she 
was  conscious  to  the  last.  Will  you  and  uncle  be  able  to  attend 
the  funeral  on  Saturday  next?  Please  excuse  this  short  letter, 
dear  aunt,  as  I  am  really  too  upset  to  write  connected  sentences. 

Your  sorrowful  niece, 

LINA  BLACK. 


198    CONGRATULATIONS,   CONDOLENCES,    RESIGNATIONS 

306.  To  a  Brother-in-Law,  Announcing  the  Death  of  the 
Writer's  Husband. 

F ,  May  17,  19 — . 

Dear  Arthur: — 

You  will  have  received  my  telegram  telling  you  that  my 
dear  husband  was  sinking  fast.  The  change  for  the  worse  took 
place  quite  suddenly  last  night,  and  this  morning  at  six  o'clock  he 
died.  I  am  too  miserable  to  write  more,  pray  come  to  me  if  pos- 
sible ;  there  is  so  much  to  be  arranged,  and  I  feel  quite  unequal  to 
giving  the  necessary  directions  for  the  funeral. 
m  Your  unhappy  sister, 

JULIA  C.  DUDENY. 


307.  Condoling  with  a  Lady  on  the  Death  of  Her  Husband. 

P ,  July  28,  19—. 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Lovering : — 

I  was  deeply  grieved  to  hear  of  the  death  of  your  husband, 
and  write  to  offer  you  my  sincerest  sympathy.  At  present,  I  have 
no  doubt,  you  "can  hardly  realize  your  loss,  and  the  blank  made  in 
your  life  must  be  very  terrible  to  bear ;  you  were  so  much  to  each 
other,  and  appeared  to  be  so  truly  happy  in  your  married  life.  By 
and  by  I  trust  the  care  of  your  boy  will  give  you  an  interest  in 
life,  but  fear  you  must  be  too  miserable  as  yet  to  take  comfort 
even  from  this. 

With  kind  love,  believe  me, 

Your  affectionate  friend, 

HARRIET  SINGLETON. 


308.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

R ,  August  12,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Singleton : — 

Thank  you  ever  so  much  for  your  touching  letter ;  the  loss 
of  my  dear  husband  has  left  me  unspeakably  desolate,  and  I  can 
hardly  bear  to  write  of  my  sorrow  as  yet.  I  fdel  too  broken- 
hearted to  do  anything  but  sit  down  and  cry  helplessly.  Of  course 
I  ought  to  rouse  myself,  but  the  knowledge  that  he  has  gone  from 


CONGRATULATIONS,   CONDOLENCES,   RESIGNATIONS    199 

me  forever,  and  that  henceforward  I  shall  be  alone,  deprived  of 
his  loving  care,  is  all  that  I  can  realize.  By  and  by  my  duty 
toward  my  child  will  give  me  something  to  live  for,  but  at  present 
I  can  only  mourn,  and  pray  for  resignation. 

Believe  me,  dear  Mrs.  Singleton, 

Yours  in  great  grief, 

GEORGIANA  LOVERING. 


309.  Condoling  with  a  Gentleman  on  the  Death  of  His  Wife. 

C ,  July  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Stevens: — 

It  seems  almost  cruel  to  intrude  upon  you  in  your  great 
sorrow,  but  I  cannot  delay  writing  how  much  my  husband  and 
myself  sympathize  with  you.  We  saw  the  announcement  of  the 
death  of  your  dear  wife  in  the  "Journal,"  and  were  "greatly 
shocked,  as  we  had  not  even  heard  of  her  illness.  Pray  do  not 
think  of  answering  this  letter;  I  only  wanted  to  say  that  our 
hearts  are  with  you,  in  this  severe  bereavement,  the  more 
sad  since  your  dear  little  girls  are  thus  deprived  at  so  tender  an 
age  of  a  loving  mother's  care. 
With  our  united  kind  regards  and  deep  sympathy, 
Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

ADA  B.  CHAMBERLAIN. 


310.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

C ,  July  17,  19—. 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Chamberlain : — 

Please  accept  my  heartfelt  thanks  for  your  kind  letter  of 
sympathy.  My  dear  wife's  death  has  left  me  utterly  miserable, 
and  her  loss  to  me  is  irreparable.  She  was  the  dearest  and  best  of 
women,  and  the  void  created  in  my  life  is,  indeed,  most  terrible  to 
bear.  My  darling  children  are  scarcely  old  enough  to  understand 
all  the  misery  of  the  present  moment. 
Remember  me  kindly  to  your  husband.  I  remain, 

Sorrowfully  yours, 

JAMES  STEVENS. 


2OO    CONGRATULATIONS,    CONDOLENCES,    RESIGNATIONS 

311.  Condoling  with  a  Lady  on  the  Death  of  Her  Brother. 

P ,  April  3,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Hey  wood: — 

I  was  deeply  concerned  to  read,  in  the  Paris  edition  of 

the  '  'N Y H ,"  about  the  death  of  your  brother. 

Although  you  have  not  seen  much  of  him  of  late  years,  still  of 
course  his  loss  must  have  been  a  great  shock  to  you.  I  remember 
him  a  handsome,  most  promising  young  fellow ;  how  sad  that  he 
should  thus  be  cut  off  in  the  prime  of  life !  Have  you  heard  any 
particulars  beyond  the  fact  of  his  death?  I  suppose  his  poor 
young  wife  will  return  at  once  to  her  own  people,  as  he  has  left 
two  children.  I  am  truly  grieved  for  you  all;  and  with  kind 
regards, 

Believe  me  as  ever, 

Your  affectionate  old  friend, 

EDGAR  SAUNDERSON. 


312.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

O ,  May  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Saunderson : — 

Please  accept  my  most  earnest  thanks  for  your  kind  letter 
of  condolence.  My  poor  brother's  unexpected  death  was  indeed  a 
great  shock  to  us.  All  that  we  have  as  yet  heard  is  that  he  was 
ill  only  three  days,  and  that  enteric  fever  was  the  cause  of  death ; 
his  wife  was  too  overwhelmed  with  grief  to  write  more  fully,  but 
we  trust  we  shall  hear  from  her  by  next  mail.  Her  father  is  very 
anxious  that  she  should  come  back  to  us  at  once  with  her  children. 
John  and  I  were  such  great  friends  up  to  the  time  of  his  mar- 
riage, it  seems  too  sad  to  think  that  I  shall  never  see  him  again ; 
we  were  fond  and  proud  of  him  too,  and  his  sudden  death  is  inex- 
pressibly terrible  to  us  all. 

With  kind  love  believe  me,  dear  Mr.  Saunderson, 
Yours  affectionately, 

MARY  LAWSON  HEYWOOD. 


CONGRATULATIONS,    CONDOLENCES,    RESIGNATIONS    2OI 

313.  Condoling  with  a  Young  Lady  on  the  Death  of  Her 
Mother. 

P ,  October  3,  19—. 

My  Dear  Margaret: — 

I  was  deeply  grieved  to  hear  from  you  of  the  death  of  your 
dear  mother,  and  I  can  well  imagine  how  greatly  you  must  miss 
her  every  hour.  You  have  one  consolation,  however,  that  of  hav- 
ing been  the  best  of  daughters  to  her,  and  having  given  her  the 
most  devoted  care  during  her  long  illness.  In  such  a  trial  as 
this,  little  can  be  said  to  comfort  you,  and  time  alone  will  soften 
your  sorrow  for  the  loss  of  the  kindest  of  mothers.  In  her  death 
I  have  lost  a  dear  friend,  and  indeed  all  who  knew  her  cannot 
fail  to  regret  one  who  was  so  amiable  and  unselfish.  Have 
you  made  any  plans  as  yet,  and  what  does  your  brother  wish  you 
to  do? — are  you  to  live  with  him  or  with  one  of  your  mother's 
relatives?  I  shall  be  much  interested  to  hear  what  you  propose 
doing,  and  if  you  would  care  to  come  to  us  for  a  quiet  visit,  do  not 
hesitate  to  say  so.  Mr.  Standish  unites  with  me  in  sending  you 
and  your  brother  the  expression  of  our  profound  sympathy. 
Believe  me,  dear  Margaret, 

Your  affectionate  friend, 

HELEN  H.  STANDISH. 


314.  Condoling  with  a  Friend  on  the  Loss  of  Her  Child. 

D ,  Nov.  17,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Jackson : — 

I  never  felt  so  much  at  a  loss  to  express  my  feelings.  If 
only  I  could  tell  you  all  that  is  in  my  heart !  It  seems  to  me  that 
in  the  presence  of  your  great  grief,  silence  is  the  only  suitable 
offering.  How  deeply  I  sympathize  with  'you  no  words  of  mine 
can  tell,  and  to  utter  the  common  words  of  condolence  would  serve 
no  end  in  your  case. 

"For  common  is  the  common  place, 
And  empty  chaff  well  meant." 

One  only  hope  can  comfort]  you  in 'these  sad  hours,  the  hope 
that  somewhere  in  the  "many  mansions"  of  our  "Father's  house," 
the  daughter  who  loved  you  with  all  the  sweetness  of  her  early 


2O2    CONGRATULATIONS,    CONDOLENCES,    RESIGNATIONS 

affection  loves  you  still.     The"  shadows  of  the  valley  of  death 
cannot  eclipse  the  light  of  love. 

Time,  the  great  healer,  will  bring  balm  to  your  wounded  spirit. 
I  have  just  been  reading  the  poems  of  Horatius  Bonar,  and  I  recall 
a  stanza  of  his  that  expresses  better  than  any  words  of  mine  could 
do  the  calm,  divine  hope  of  a  reunion  of  the  loved  and  lost  in  that 
fair  land  that  lies  beyond  the  boundaries  of  time.  It  runs  thus : 

"Where  the  faded  flower  shall  blossom, 
Blossom  never  more  to  fade ; 
Where  the  shaded  sky  shall  brighten, 
Brighten  never  more  to  shade, 
Where  the  child  shall  meet  her  mother 
And  the  mother  meet  her  child; 
And  dear  families  b«  gathered, 

That  were  scattered  on  the  wild 

Dear  ones,  we  shall  meet  and  rest, 
Mid  the  holy  and  the  blest !" 

May  the  hope  of  a  future  reunion  be  your  hope,  and  comfort, 
and  stay. 

I  am,  my  dear  Mrs.  Wilson, 

Ever  yours  sincerely. 

EVA  ROBERTS. 


315.  Condoling  with  a  Lady  on  the  Death  of  a  Friend. 

L ,  January  28,  19—. 

Dearest  Emma:— 

I  only  accidentally  heard  last  night  of  the  death  of  poor 
Mrs.  Fredericks ;  she  was  a  great  friend  of  yours,  and  you  must 
have  been  very  grieved  and  upset  when  the  sad  news  reached 
you.  You  were  so  fond  of  her  that  no  doubt  you  felt  as  if  you 
had  lost  a  near  relation,  and  very  naturally,  as  she  was  beloved 
and  admired  by  all  who  knew  her.  I  do  so  pity  the  husband, 
and  the  little  motherless  girl. 

I  hope  you  are  enjoying  good  health ;  we  have  all  been  suffer- 
ing from  colds  lately. 

Believe  me,  dear  Emma, 

Your  sympathetic  friend, 

MAUD  DILLINGHAM. 


CONGRATULATIONS,    CONDOLENCES,    RESIGNATIONS    203 

316.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

P ,  February  i,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Maud: — 

Poor  Mrs.  Fredericks'  death  has  indeed  caused  a  blank 
amongst  her  many  friends,  but  none  of  them  will  miss  her  more 
than  I  shall,  as  we  were  brought  up  together  and  were  quite  like 
sisters.  I  cannot  tell  you  how  greatly  her  loss  affects  me ;  she  was 
so  much  to  us  in  every  way,  such  a  dear,  dear  friend.  Her  husband 
seems  heart-broken,  he  thinks  of  going  abroad  for  a  few  months, 
and  his  little  daughter  is  to  remain  with  me  during  his  absence. 

Excuse  my  not  writing  a  longer  letter  to-day,  and  believe  me, 
dear  Maud, 

Your  affectionate 

EMMA  CARTER. 

317.  Asking  a  Friend  to  Attend  a  Funeral. 

B ,  September  i,  19 — . 

DEAR  SIR:— 

I  have  been  requested  by  Mrs.  Judson  to  inform  you  that 
the  funeral  of  her  son,  the  late  Mr.  Edgar  Judson,  is  to  take  place 
at  Grace  P.  E.  Church,  on  Saturday,  the  i7th  instant,  at  12 
o'clock,  and  to  say  that  she  would  be  grateful  if  you  could  attend 
the  services. 

Believe  me, 

Yours  respectfully, 

HENRY  FOSTER. 


318.  To   a   Lady,   Offering   to   Attend    the    Funeral    of   Her 

Husband. 

C—    — ,  July  14,  19—.    * 
Dear  Mrs.  Carson: — 

I  was  deeply  shocked  to  hear  of  the  death  of  my  valued  old 
friend,  Mr.  Carson,  and  beg  to  offer  you  my  sincere  sympathy.  I 
much  wish  to  attend  the  funeral,  unless  you  desire  that  only 
relatives  should  be  present.  Perhaps  you  will  kindly  let  me  know 
your  decision  on  the  subject,  and  when  and  where  the  ceremony  is 
to  take  place. 

I  remain, 

Very  truly  yours, 

HENRY  B.  WILDER. 


204    CONGRATULATIONS,   CONDOLENCES,    RESIGNATIONS 

319.  Asking  a  Relative  to  attend  a  Funeral. 

The  Grove, 

S ,  April  13,  19—. 

Dear  Uncle  James : — 

By  this  time  you  have  surely  received  my  telegram  contain- 
ing the  sad  news  of  my  dear  mother's  death.     My  father  is  quite 
overcome  with  grief  at  the  suddenness  of  the  blow  that  has  fallen 
upon  us  all,  and  is  therefore  unequal  to  writing  himself,  but 
he  wishes  me  to  say  that  the  funeral  is  to  take  place  on  Saturday 
next,  the  loth  instant,  at  2  o'clock,  at  the  North  Baptist  Church, 
and  he  hopes  you  will  attend  if  possible. 
With  our  united  best  love,  I  remain,  in  deep  grief, 
Your  affectionate  nephew, 

HERBERT  REEVES. 


320.  To  a  Relative,  Offering  to  attend  a  Funeral. 

D ,  May  19,  19. — 

Dear  Aunt  Julia: — 

I  can  hardly  find  words  to  tell  you  how  deeply  we  were 
shocked  and  grieved  to  hear  of  my  dear  kind  uncle's  death.  You 
did  not  say  when  the  funeral  is  to  take  place,  but  please  let  me 
know,  as  I  much  wish  to  attend  it  and  to  pay  this  last  mark  of 
respect  to  one  for  whom  we  entertained  so  deep  and  sincere  an 
affection. 
Believe  me,  dear  aunt,  with  much  love, 

Your  sorrowful  nephew, 

JAMES  WARNER. 


CHAPTER  IV 

INVITATIONS  AND   REGRETS 

321.  Inviting  a  Married  Couple  to  a  Formal  Dinner. 

C ,  March  5,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Smithson: — 

Will  you  and  Mr.  Smithson  give  us  the  pleasure  of  your 
company  at  dinner  on  Thursday  the  i2th  instant,  at  a  quarter  to 
eight? 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

ELLEN  MORROW. 


322.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Acceptance). 

O ,  March  7,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Morrow: — 

It  will  give  us  much  pleasure  to  accept  your  kind  invitation 
to  dine  with  you  on  Thursday,  the  i2th  instant. 

Very  truly  yours, 

GERTRUDE  SMITHSON. 


323.  Answer  to  No.  321  (Regrets). 

O ,  March  7,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Morrow: — 

T  very  much  regret  that  a  prior  engagement  will  prevent 
our  having  the  pleasure  of  dining  with  you  on  Thursday,  the  i2tb 
instant. 

Very  truly  yours, 

GERTRUDE  SMITHSON. 
205 


206  INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS 

324.  Inviting  a  Married  Couple  to  an  Informal  Dinner. 

N ,  December  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Sunbury: — 

We  should  be  delighted  if  you  and  Mr.  Sunbury  would  dine 
with  us  on  Wednesday  the  i8th  instant,  at  7  o'clock.  It  will  be 
quite  a  small  party,  as  we  have  only  asked  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Spencer 
and  Mr.  and  Miss  Whitcomb.  We  trust  you  will  be  disengaged 
and  able  to  give  us  the  pleasure  of  your  company. 

Very  truly  yours, 

ISABELLA  NORRIS. 


325.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Acceptance). 

N ,  December  n,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Norris: — 

Mr.  Sunbury  and  I  have  much  pleasure  in  accepting  your 
kind  invitation  to  dine  with  you  on  the  i8th  instant.  I  was  so 
sorry  to  miss  seeing  you  on  Sunday ;  we  had  gone  for  a  long  drive 

to  Y ,  and  did  not  return  till  after  five.     Hoping  to  be  more 

fortunate  the  next  time  you  call, 

Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

CAROLINE  SUNBURY. 


326.  Answer  to  No.  324  (Regrets). 

N ,  December  u,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Norris: — 

We  are  extremely  sorry  to  be  unable  to  accept  your  kind 
invitation  to  dinner,  but  we  are  going  up  to  Washington  on  the 
loth  of  this  month,  and  shall  not  return  home  until  after  the 
Holidays,  when  I  hope  to  come  and  see  you.  With  many  thanks 
and  regrets 

Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

CAROLINE  SUNBURY. 


INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS  3O7 

327.  Inviting  a  Gentleman  to  a  Formal  Dinner. 

•     B ,  April  3,  19—. 

Dear  Mr.  D wight: — 

It  would  give  us  great  pleasure  if  you  would  dine  with  us 
on  Saturday  next,  the  loth  instant,  at  8  o'clock,  if  disengaged. 
Very  truly  yours, 

HARRIET  WINTHROP  COLE. 


328.  Inviting  a  Gentleman  to  an  Informal  Dinner. 

B ,  May  8,  19—. 

Dear  Mr.  Dvvight: — 

Will  you  give  us  the  pleasure  of  your  company  quite 
informally  at  dinner  on  Saturday,  the  loth  instant,  at  half-past 
seven?  Please  excuse  this  short  notice,  as  we  have  only  just  heard 
you  were  in  town. 

Very  truly  yours, 

HARRIET  WINTHROP  COLE. 


329.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Acceptance). 

B — ,  May  9,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Cole:— 

It  will  be  a  great  pleasure  for  me  to  dine  with  you  on  Satur- 
day next,  the  loth.  I  should  have  called  on  you  before  this,  but 
have  been  so  much  occupied  since  my  return  to  town,  that  I  had 
not  a  moment  to  pay  any  such  civilities,  to  my  great  personal 
regret. 

Very  truly  yours, 

ARTHUR  DWIGHT. 


330.  Answer  to  No.  328  (Regrets). 

B ,  May  9   19—. 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Cole:— 

I  would  have  been  delighted  to  accept  your  kind  invitation 
to  dine  with  you  on  Saturday  the  loth,  but  unfortunately  I  have 
promised  to  be  present  at  a  large  public  dinner  on  that  day. 
Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

ARTHUR  DWIGHT. 


208  INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS 

331.  Inviting  a  Lady  to  a  Luncheon. 

P ,  May  3,  19—. 

My  Dear  Miss  Sanderson: — 

If  disengaged,  will  you  come  to  lunch  with  us  on  Mondajr 
next,  at  i  o'clock?    We  shall  be  very  pleased  to  see  you. 
Believe  me, 

Sincerely  yours. 

BERTHA  MEADE. 


332,  Answer  to  the  Above  (Acceptance). 

P ,  May  4,  19—, 

Dear  Mrs.  Meade : — 

Please  accept  my  thanks  for  your  kind  invitation  to  lunch 
on  Saturday  next.     I  have  much  pleasure  in  accepting  it. 

Sincerely  yours, 

MABEL  SANDERSON. 


333.  Answer  to  No.  331  (Regrets). 

P ,  May  4,  19— . 

Dear  Mrs.  Meade: — 

To  my  great  regret,  I  shall  not  be  able  to  come  to  lunch  with 
you  on  Monday  next,  as  I  have  promised  to  take  my  nieces  to  a 

matinee  at  the  H S Theater  on  that  day,  but  shall 

hope  to  see  you  next  week,  and  will  take  my  chance  of  finding  you 
at  home. 

Believe  me, 

Sincerely  yours, 

MABEL  SANDERSON. 


334.  Inviting  a  Gentleman  to  a  Luncheon. 

P ,  May  4,  19—. 

Dear  Mr.  Brackett:— 

Will  you  come  and  lunch  with  us  on  Monday  next,  i  o'clock, 
if  not  otherwise  engaged?  You  will  meet  an  old  friend  of  yours, 
so  do  come  if  you  can, 

Very  truly  yours, 

BERTHA  MEADE. 


INVITATIONS   AND    REGRETS  209 

335.  Answer  to  the  Above  (Acceptance). 

P ,  May  5,  19—- 

Dear  Mrs.  Meade: — 

I  shall  be  most  happy  to  lunch  with  you  on  Monday  next 
Your  husband  seems  to  have  had  a  bad  attack ;  I  was  glad  to  see 
him  cut  again. 

Very  truly  yours,  * 

ROBERT  D.  BRACKETT. 


336.  Answer  to  No.  334  (Regrett). 

P ,  May  5,  19—. 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Meade: — 

I  am  sorry  I  cannot  have  the  pleasure  of  lunching  with 
you  on  Monday  next,  as  I  shall  be  particularly  engaged  all  the 
afternoon  with  polo  practice  for  Thursday's  match,  which  I  hope 
you  will  attend.  Please  give  my  kind  regards  to  the  old  friend 
you  mentioned,— I  have  not  an  idea  who  he— or  she  can  be. 

Very  truly  yours, 

ROBERT  D.  BRACKETT. 


337.  Asking  a  Young  Lady  to  Sing  at  an  Afternoon  Tea. 

C ,  February  28,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Miss  Evans:— 

I  enclose  a  card  for  an  afternoon  tea  I  propose  giving  on 
the  loth  of  next'month.  We  much  hope  you  will  be  able  to  come 
and,  should  think  it  so  kind  if  you  would  entertain  us  with  some 
of  your  fine  singing ;  several  of  my  friends  have  promised  their 
services  for  the  occasion,  and  I  expect  we  shall  have  some  very 
good  music.  Thanking  you  heartily  in  advance, 

Believe  me, 

Sincerely^yours, 

KATHERINE  DALY. 


210  INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS 

338.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

C ,  March  i,  19—. 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Daly:— 

I  shall  be  delighted  to  come  to  your  tea  on  the  loth,  and 
will  bring  one  or  two  new  songs  with  me  which  I  hope  may 
please  you  and  your  friends. 

Sincerely  yours, 

MARGARET  EVANS. 


339.  Inviting  a  Lady  to  a  Formal  Afternoon  Tea. 

C ,  February  28,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Russell: — 

I  take  great  pleasure  in  sending  you  a  card  for  an  afternoon 
tea  I  purpose  giving  on  the  loth  of  March.  I  hope  you  may  be 
able  to  come,  and  if  you  care  to  bring  any  friend  of  yours 
with  you,  they  will  be  welcome. 

Believe  me, 

Sincerely  yours, 

KATHERINE  DALY. 

340.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

C ,  March  i,  19—. 

Dear  Mrs.  Daly: — 

Please  accept  my  thanks  for  your  welcome  invitation.  I  hope 
to  be  able  to  come  to  your  tea  next  Friday,  and  will  bring  my 
friend  Miss  Burch  with  me,  as  you  are  kind  enough  to  say  I  may 

do  so. 

Sincerely  yours, 

ALBERTA  RUSSELL, 

341.  Inviting  a  Lady  to  an  Informal  Afternoon  Tea. 

M ,  January  15,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Salter:— 

A  few  of  our  friends  are  coming  to  afternoon  tea  on  Friday 
next,  and  we  hope  to  have  a  little  good  music.  Perhaps  you  may 
be  able  to  look  in  for  half  an  hour;  if  so,  I  should  be  very  pleased 
to  see  you. 

Believe  me, 

Yours  sincerely, 

SELMA  WHITE. 


INVITATIONS   AND    REGRETS  211 

342.  Asking  a  Gentleman  to  Recite  at  an  Afternoon  Tea. 

C ,  February  20,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Starling:-— 

I  enclose  a  card  for  a  tea  at  my  house,  on  March  loth, 
and  hope  so  much  you  will  be  able  to  come.  I  wonder  whether 
you  would  recite  something  during  the  afternoon?  It  would  be 
most  [good-natured  if  you  allowed  yourself  to  be  persuaded  to 
do  so. 

Believe  me, 

Sincerely  yours. 

KATHARINE  DALY. 


343.  Inviting  a  Lady  to  an  Informal  Garden  Party  > 

T ,  August  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Duncan : — 

I  should  be  delighted  if  you  and  friends  in  your  house  would 
drive  over  on  Monday  next,  the  i6th  instant,  any  time  between 
three  and  seven  o'clock,  to  play  tennis.  I  have  only  asked  our 
immediate  neighbors,  but  expect  some  good  players  amongst 
them. 

Sincerely  yours, 

LUCY  MEREDITH. 


344.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

The  Cedars, 

Y •,  August  17,  19—. 

Dear  Mrs.  Meredith:— 

It  will  give  us  great  pleasure  to  drive  over  on  Monday  next 
to  join  your  tennis  party,  weather  permitting;  an  occasional 
shower  would  not  prevent  our  coming,  and  only  a  thorough  down- 
pour could  keep  us  away. 

Sincerely  yours, 

ELIZABETH  DUNCAN. 


212  INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS 

345.  Inviting  a  Lady  to  a  Church  Sociable, 

G ,  August  6,  19—. 

My  Dear  Miss  Dinsmore : — 

I  hope  you  and  your  sister  will  be  able  to  come  to  our 
church  sociable  on  Wednesday  the  i8th  instant.  It  is  to  be  held 
inside  and  outside  the  Brick  Church,  between  seven  and  eleven 
o'clock,  and  we  hope  it  will  prove  a  success.  There  will  also  be 
exhibits  of  needlework  by  the  school  children,  and  the  prizes  are 
to  be  distributed  at  eight  o'clock. 

Believe  me, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

ARABELLA  WHITE. 


346.  Inviting  a  Lady  to  a  Picnic. 

R ,  August  4,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Miss  Selwyn:— 

Mamma  requests  me  to  say  that  she  will  be  very  pleased  if 
you  and  your  brother  will  join  our  Picnic  party  on  Tuesday  next, 
the  loth  instant.  We  expect  about  fourteen  people,  and  we  are  to 
start  from  our  house  In  two  open  carriages  at  eleven  o'clock.  I 
trust  you  will  be  able  to  come,  and  that  we  shall  have  a  very 
pleasant  day, 

Believe  me, 

Sincerely  yours, 

HATTIE  WILSON. 


347.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

S ,  August  5,  19—. 

Dear  Miss  Wilson:— 

I  am  so  sorry  that  we  are  unable  to  accept  your  kind  invi- 
tation for  Tuesday  next,  as  we  are  asked  to  an  afternoon  dance 
at  the  Belmont  Country  Club  on  that  day.    My  brother  desires  me 
to  convey  his  regards  and  many  regrets,  in  which  I  join. 
Believe  me» 

Truly  yours, 

GEORGIAN  A  SELWYN. 


INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS  213 

348.  Inviting  a  Gentleman  to  a  Picnic. 

R ,  August  4,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Darnley : — 

Can  I  persuade  you  to  join  our  Picnic,  on  Tuesday  next. 
It  is  to  be  held  at  Marble  Hill,  but  we  are  all  to  assemble  here 
at  ii  o'clock,  and  shall  number  between  fourteen  and  fifteen, 
including  Miss  Perkins  and  Mrs.  Henry  Shaw,  both  of  whom 
you  know. 

Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

IDA  WILSON. 


349.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

R ,  August  5,  19—. 

Dear  Miss  Wilson:— 

Shall  be  very  glad  indeed  to  join  your  Picnic  Party  on 
Tuesday  next,  and  will  be  at  your  house  at  the  hour  named  in 
your  note. 

Very  truly  yours, 

WILLIAM  DARNLEY. 


350.  From  a  Married  Lady  to  Another,  Inviting  Her  to  Attend 
a  Theatre  Party. 

C ,  April  8,  TO—. 

Dear  Mrs.  Livermore : — 

We  just  had  box  tickets  sent  us  for  Friday  evening,  to  see  the 
New  Orleans  French  Opera  Company,  which  is  having  such  a 

surprising  success  at  the  A .     I  hear  it  is  very  good.     I 

write  to  say  how  pleased  we  should  be  if  you  and  Mr.  Livermore 
would  join  us.  We  might  either  meet  at  the  theater  or  start  from 
here,  as  most  convenient  to  you. 

Very  truly  yours, 

ELLEN  MOPFAT. 


214  INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS 

351.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

C ,  April  9,  19—. 

Dear  Mrs.  Moffat:— 

Mr.  Livermore  and  myself  should  have  found  it  a  great 
pleasure  to  accept  your  kind  invitation  to  accompany  you  to  the 
theater  Friday  evening,  but  I  have  unfortunately  been  confined  to 
the  house  for  some  days  with  a  bad  cough,  and  dare  not  venture 
out  in  the  night  air. 

Believe  me,  with  many  thanks, 

Very  truly  yours, 

KATE  LIVERMORE. 


352.  From  a  Gentleman  Inviting  a  Young  Lady  to  Attend  a 

Theatre. 

N ,  November  10,  19 — •. 

Dear  Miss  Swinton : — 

If  I  remember  right  you  said,  last  Saturday,  that  you  would 

like  to  see  the  new  piece  at  the  H S Theater.     If  you 

allow  me,  I  will  endeavor  to  secure  seats  for  any  evening  next 
week  on  which  you  may  be  disengaged,  and  shall  hope  to  have 
the  pleasure  of  calling  for  you. 

Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

HAROLD  SAMPSON  DAY. 


353.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

N ,  November  n,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Day: 

I  should  much  enjoy  going  to  the  theater  one  day  next 
week,  and  it  is  very  kind  of  you  to  offer  to  invite  me.  I  think 
Monday  would  be  the  most  convenient  night  if  it  suits  you  equally 
well. 

Believe  me  in  the  meantime, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

ADELINA  SWINTON. 


INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS  215 

354.  Inviting  a  Lady  to  a  Small  Evening  Party. 

C ,  January  12,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Miss  Bright:— 

Will  you  come  to  our  house  to-morrow  at  9  o'clock  and  spend 
the  evening  with  us?  We  mean  to  have  a  game  of  cards  and  a  little 
music.  I  am  sorry  we  cannot  ask  you  to  dinner,  as  we  are  in  the 
midst  of  our  periodical  servant  trouble;  but  I  thought  perhaps 
you  might  like  to  come  to  us  in  this  informal  way. 

Very  truly  yours, 

ALVA  STORY. 


355.  Inviting  a  Lady  and  Her  Daughter  to  a  Dance. 

A ,  August  10,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Stanton: — 

I  propose  giving  a  little  dance  on  the  2oth,  and  I  hope  you 
will  all  be  able  to  attend.  It  is  quite  an  impromptu  affair,  but  I 
trust  your  daughters  will  enjoy  it  nevertheless.  Dancing  'will 
commence  at  half -past  nine. 

Believe  me, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

GERTRUDE  MANNERS. 


356.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

A ,  August  ii,  19—. 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Manners : — 

My  daughters  would  have  been  delighted  to  accept  the  invi- 
tation to  your  dance,  had  we  not  decided  to  leave  the  seashore  for 
Lenox  at  the  end  of  this  week,  which  will  preclude  their  having 
the  pleasure  of  doing  so,  much  to  their  regret.  I  am  sure  your 
dance  will  be  a  great  'success,  and  I  am  only  too  sorry  that  none 
of  us  can  be  present. 

Believe  me, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

LUCILE  STANTON. 


2l6  INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS 

357.  Inviting  a  Young  Lady  to  a  Dance. 

D ,  Jan.  8,  19—. 

My  Dear  Miss  Levering: — 

It  would  be  very  charming,  indeed,  if  you  and  your  brother 

could  come  to  a  little  dance  on  the  2oth,  which  mamma  is  going  to 

give  in  honor  of  my  birthday.     I  hope  you  will  be  able  to  accept 

this  invitation.     We  shall  begin  dancing  soon  after  nine  o'clock. 

Believe  me, 

Yours  affectionately, 

MAUD  BYRNES. 


358.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

D ,  January  9,  19—. 

Dear  Miss  Byrnes:— 

Thank  you  very  much  for  your  kind  invitation,  which  my 
brother  and  I  have  much  pleasure  in  accepting. 
With  love,  believe  me, 

Yours  affectionately, 

HATTIE  LOVERING. 


359.  Inviting  a  Gentleman  to  a  Dancing-Party. 

C ,  February  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  White:— 

I  take  much  pleasure  in  enclosing  a  card  for  a  dancing- 
party  we  intend  giving  on  the  ist  of  March,  as  I  have  just  heard 
that  you  were  at  home  again.  I  hope  you  will  be  able  to  come, 
and  if  your  cousin,  Mr.  Stevens,  is  staying  at  your  house  shall 
be  very  glad  if  you  bring  him  with  you. 

Sincerely  yours, 

MARGARET  WINSLOW. 


360.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

C ,  February  12,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Winslow: — 

I  shall  certainly  come  to  your  dance  on  the  first  of  next 
month,  "when  I  expect  to  be  back  from  Florida.     My  cousin  is 


INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS  21 7 

leaving  for  Europe  on  the  2oth,  so  I  shall  not  be  able  to  bring  him 
along.  With  many  thanks  for  your  kind  invitation  and  regrets  in 
the  name  of  Mr.  Stevens,  believe  me, 

My  dear  Mrs.  Winslow, 

Yours  obediently, 

HARRY  WINTON  WHITE. 


361.  Inviting  a  Gentleman  to  a  Garden  Party. 

D ,  August  14,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Lloyd:— 

We  are  planning  a  garden  party  at  the  Laurels  for  Thurs- 
day evening  next,  and  it  would  afford  us  all  great  pleasure  if  you 
could  make  it  convenient  to  be  with  us  on  that  occasion.  We  hope 
for  a  goodly  company.  The  Dixons,  the  Mathers,  the  Wilsons, 
the  Broadbents,  and  a  host  of  other  friends  with  whom  you  are 
well  acquainted,  are  expected.  The  reception  will  be  given  in 
honor  of  Harold's  return  from  his  trip  to  the  Rockies.  We  shall 
be  delighted  to  have  brother  home  again,  and  he,  no  doubt,  will  be 
glad  to  be  back  among  his  friends.  We  hope  nothing  will  pre- 
vent your  coming.  Don't  be  late.  We  shall  have  croquet  and 
tennis,  of  course.  And  if  the  promise  of  the  Almanac  holds  good, 
and  there  should  be  a  full  moon  that  night,  the  boating  will  be 
charming. 

Yours,  very  truly, 
LINA  TAYLOR. 

362.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

D ,  August  15,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Miss  Taylor:— 

Your  kind  note  of  yesterday  has  just  come  to  hand.  I  have 
great  pleasure  in  accepting  your  invitation  to  the  garden  party  of 
Thursday  evening  next  to  welcome  your  pilgrim  brother  back  to 
his  home  and  friends.  I  have  so  many  pleasant  memories  of 
happy  hours  spent  at  the  Laurels,  that  I  shall  look  forward  to 
this  occasion  with  most  cheerful  anticipations.  Moon  or  no  moon, 
we  shall  be  sure  to  have  a  delightful  time.  You  may  depend  on 
my  early  appearance. 

Believe  me,  dear  Miss  Taylor, 

Yours,  very  truly, 

ALFRED  LLOYD. 


2l8  INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS 

363.  From  a  Gentleman  to  a  Young  Lady  Inviting  Her  to 
Visit  a  Theater. 

T ,  October  7,  19—. 

My  Dear  Miss  Samson: — 

You  will  doubtless  have  noticed  by  the  newspapers  that  the 
venerable  Joe  Jefferson,  the  great  American  comedian,  is  to  visit 
D next  week  and  give  a  round  of  his]  inimitable  perform- 
ances. If  you  have  not  seen  this  distinguished  actor  it  would  be 
a  great  treat  to  admire  one  of  his  world-renowned  characters.  I 
should  esteem  it  a  favor  if  you  would  accompany  me  any  evening 
next  week  to  the  theater  to  witness  one  of  his  wonderful  presenta- 
tions. Monday  evening  he  plays  in  "Rip  Van  Winkle,"  Tuesday 
evening,  Caleb  Plummer  in  "The  Cricket  on  the  Hearth," 
and  the  balance  of  the  week  he  appears  as  Bob  Acres  in  "The 
Rivals."  It  would  be  a  pleasure  to  me  to  be  favored  with  your 
company  any  night  that  would  be  most  agreeable  to  you. 
Believe  me,  my  dear  Miss  Samson, 

Yours  very  truly, 

ARCHIBALD  CLAY. 


364.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

T ,  October  8,  19—. 

Dear  Mr.  Clay:— 

Pray  accept  my  sincere  thanks  for  your  courteous  note.    I 
shall  be  delighted  to  avail  myself  of  your  kind  invitation  for  next 
week.     I  have  seen  Mr.  Jefferson  in  "Rip  Van  Winkle"  and  "The 
Rivals,"  but  if  it  would  suit  your  convenience  just  as  well  I  think 
I  should  like  to  see  him  as  Caleb  Plummer  in  "The  Cricket  on 
the  Hearth,"  which,  I  believe,  he  plays  on  Tuesday  evening. 
With  many  thanks  for  your  kind  invitation, 
I  remain. 

Yours  sincerely, 

MAGGIE  SAMSON. 


365.  From  a  Little  Girl  to  a  Friend,  Asking  Her  to  Tea. 

T ,  December  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Daisy:— 

Next  Friday  is  my  birthday.     Mamma  says  I  may  have  a 
little  tea  party,  and  I  am  to  write  the  notes  of  invitation  myself. 


INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS  2  IT) 

I  hope  your  mother  will  let  you  come.  We  shall  have  tea  at 
half -past  four,  ,and  games  and  dancing  after  tea.  Trusting  that 
you  will  be  able  to  attend, 

I  am,  your  affectionate  friend, 

ALMA  CLARKE. 

366.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

T ,  December  n,  19—. 

Dear  Alma : — 

Mother  says  I  may  come  to  tea  with  you  next  Friday,  and  I 
shall  be  very  happy  to.  I  wonder  if  you  will  have  many  birthday 
presents.  Mamma  is  going  to  send  you  one  which  I  think  you  will 
like. 

Your  affectionate 
DAISY  GORDON. 

367.  Inviting  a  Lady  to  Make  the   Writer  a  Visit  in  Town. 

58  M Avenue, 

N Y ,  May  6,*ig— . 

Dear  Miss  Armisted: — 

I  thought  perhaps  you  would  like  to  come  to  town  for  a  few 
days;  if  so  I  should  be  very  pleased  if  you  stayed  with  us  from 
next  Monday  on,  for  a  week.     We  will  try  to  go  to  one  or  two 
concerts  while  you  are  with  us,  as  I  know  music  is  a  great  treat  to 
you,  and  my  husband  will  perhaps  take  us  to  the  theater  one 
night.    In  any  case,  we  shall  go  to  a  Saturday  matinee. 
Hoping  to  hear  that  I  may  expect  you, 
I  remain,  with  love, 

Affectionately  yours, 

MARTHA  WILLIAMS. 

368.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

Cortlandt,  N.  Y.,  May  9,  19—. 
Dear  Mrs.  Williams: — 

Many,  many  thanks  for  your  kind  invitation  to  visit  you 
next  week.  I  am  only  too  pleased  to  accept  it,  and  hope  to  arrive 
at  your  house  on  Monday  next,  by  the  5 :  30  train.  I  am  looking 
forward  most  delightfully  to  my  little  stay  in  your  lovely  home. 
With  renewed  thanks, 

Believe  me, 

Affectionately  yours, 

ELEANOR  ARMISTED. 


220  INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS 

369.  Asking  a  Lady  to  pay  the  Writer  a  Country  Visit. 

S ,  July  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Miss  Deering:— 

I  was  just  thinking,  last  night,  whether  you  would  not  feel 
inclined  for  a  little  country  air ;  if  so,  perhaps  you  would  like  to 
run  down  to  us  for  a  few  days.     We  are  only  three  hours  and  a 
half  from  town.     If  you  are  able  to  come  and  will  let  me  know 
what  day  to  expect  you,  I  would  tell  you  the  best  train  to  take, 
and  send  the  pony-carriage  to  meet  you.     I  need  not  say  that 
your  visit  will  be  a  great  pleasure  to  us  all. 
Hoping  that  your  answer  will  be  just  "yes," 
Believe  me, 

Sincerely  yours, 

CAROLINA  MADDEN. 


370.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

N ,  July  12,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Madden: — 

I  should  have  been  delighted  to  accept  your  kind  invitation 
to  stay  with  you  for  a  few  days,  but  I  have  arranged  to  go  down 
to  Newport  on  Friday  next,  with  my  sister-in-law,  which  will,  I  am 
sorry  to  say,  prevent  my  coming  to  you  just  now.  Everybody  says 
your  part  of  the  country  is  at  its  fairest  this  month,  and  it  should 
have  been  so  pleasant  to  have  paid  you  a  little  visit,  could  it  have 
been  so  arranged. 
Believe  me,  with  many  heartfelt  thanks, 

Very  truly  yours, 

IDA  DEERING. 


371.  Inviting  a  Lady  to  pay  the  Writer  a  Visit  at  the 
Seashore. 

O W ,  August  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Miss  Malvern  :— 

It  is  now  three  weeks  since  we  arrived^  here,  "and  we  have 
enjoyed  the  change  from  town  very  much ;  the  air  is  so  ^bracing. 
Would  you  care  to  come  down  and  spend  a  week  with  us?  If  so, 


INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS  221 

it  would  give  us  much  pleasure  to  see  you.  We  shall  be  here  at 
least  a  month  longer,  as  far  as  I  know  at  present.  I  can  offer  you 
a  very  comfortable  room,  and  we  have  a  fine  view  of  the  sea  from 
our  windows.  Please  remember  me  to  your  motherland  believe 
me, 

Sincerely  yours, 

GERTRUDE  READ. 


372.  Answer  to  the  Above. 

P ,  August  12,  19—. 

Dear  Mrs.  Read  :— 

How  very  kind  of  you  to  ask  me  to  come  and  stay  at  your 

lovely  place  in  O W !    I  should  like  nothing  better  than  to 

accept  [your  tempting  invitation ;  but  am  sorry  to  say  at  present 
I  cannot  leave  home,  as  I  have  an  invalid  aunt  requiring  all  my 
care.  She  has  come  up  to  town  to  consult  a  specialist.  However, 
should  you  renew  your  invitation  in  about  ten  days'  time,  I  might 
safely  hope  to  have  the  pleasure  of  accepting  it  With  many 
thanks  for  thinking  of  me, 

Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

ELLA  MALVERN. 


373.  Postponing  a  Dinner  Party  on  Account  of  a  Death. 

L ,  May  25,  19 — . 

My  Dear  Mrs.  Darlington: — 

I  am  very  sorry  to  say  we  cannot  have  the  pleasure  of  see- 
ing you   and  Mr.   Darlington  at  dinner  to-morrow  evening,  on 
account    of  the    death    of  my    husband's  sister,    the    sad  news 
of  which  only  reached  us  this  morning. 
With  many  regrets, 

Believe  me, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

EMILY  GRACE, 


322  INVITATIONS    AND    REGRETS 

374.  Postponing  a  Dance. 

C ,  February  14,  19 — . 

Dear  Mr.  Darwin: — 

Circumstances  over  which  I  have  absolutely  no  control 
oblige  me  to  postpone  my  dance  from  the  2d  to  the  loth  of  Feb- 
ruary. I  therefore  renew  my  invitation  for  that  date,  and  trust 
you  will  be  able  to  accept  it. 

Sincerely  yours, 

ELDRIDA  DUNSCOMBE. 

375.  Postponing  a  Friend's  Visit  on  Account  of  Illness 
in  the  Family. 

M ,  August  10,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  West:— 

To  my  deep  regret,  I  have  to  ask  you  to  postpone  your  visit 
to  us  for  the  present ;  but  my  little  girljias  been  very  ill  the  last 
two  days,  and  this  morning  the  doctor  tells  me  that  she  has  a 
slight  attack  of  the  measles. 

It  is  very  unfortunate,  as  we  were  looking  forward  to  your 
visit  with  so  much  pleasurable  anticipation.  However,  I  trust  it 
is  only  a  deferred  enjoyment,  and  that  we  may  see  you  here 
before  long. 

Believe  me,  dear  Mrs.  West, 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

EMMA  CONOVER. 

376.  From  a  Gentleman,  Excusing  Himself  from  Keeping  a 
Dinner  Engagement. 

N ,  January  20,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Hunt:— 

I  sincerely  trust  you  will  not  pay  yourself  so  bad  a  compli- 
ment as  to  imagine  for  a  moment  I  amjneglecting  you  when  I  say 
that  I  am  prevented,  to  my  great  disappointment,  from  having 
the'  pleasure  of  dining  with  you  this  evening.  I  have  caught  a 
severe  cold  which  obliges  me  to  stay  in-doors  and  take  care  of 
myself ;  my  doctor  even  forbids  my  going  to  the  office  for  an  hour, 
so  you  will  understand  from  this  how  genuine  are  these  regrets. 
Am  ever  so  sorry  to  be  absent  from  such  a  pleasant  party. 
Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

BARTON  D.  LOWELL. 


INVITATIONS   AND    REGRETS  223 

377.  From   a    Lady,  Excusing  Herself  from  Keeping  a  Din- 
ner Engagement. 

B ,  December  n,  19 — . 

Dear  Mrs.  Wilde:— 

I  am  very  sorry  to  say  we  are  prevented  having  the  pleasure 
of  dining  with  you  this  evening,  and  must  ask  you  to  kindly 
accept  our  excuses,  late  as  they  are.  My  husband  was  tele- 
graphed for  this  morning,  and  started  by  the  9 :  20  train  for  town, 
where  I  fear  he  will  be  detained  several  days. 
Believe  me, 

Very  truly  yours, 

MARIA  WHIMPLE. 


378.  Resigning  from  Membership  in  a  Club. 

D ,  November  10,  19 — . 

To  the  Secretary  of  the  Benedict  Social  Club, 

D , 

Dear  Sir:— 

On  account  of  enforced  absence  from  the  city 
during  'the  coming  month,  I  hereby  hand  in  my  resignation  of 
member  of  the  B.  S.  C.,  to  take  effect  immediately. 

With  best  wishes  for  the  prosperity  of  the  organization,  wherein 
I  count  so  many  friends, 

I  remain, 

Yours  sincerely, 

LAWRENCE  DAGGETT. 


PART  V 

HOW  TO  ADDRESS  IN  WRITING 

THE  PRESIDENT  OF  THE  UNITED  STATES, 
MEMBERS  OF   HIS   CABINET,    AND 
OTHER  HIGH  OFFICIALS 

[From  Documents  Furnished  by  the  Departments  of  State,  Justice,  War,  etc.] 


i.  The  President  of  the  United  States  is  addressed: 
The  President  of  the  United  States, 
MR.  PRESIDENT: 

and  is  concluded : 

I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Mr.  President, 

Your  obedient  servant. 


2.  A  Governor  of  a  State  is  addressed: 
His  EXCELLENCY, 

The  Governor  of 

SIR:— 
and  is  concluded: 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  Sir, 

Your  obedient  servant. 


3.  A  Cabinet  Officer  is  addressed: 
THE  HonoRABLE, 

The  Secretary  of 

SIR:— 

And  letters  to  such  officers  are  concluded  like  letters  to  gov- 
ernors. 

224 


HOW    TO    ADDRESS    GOVERNMENT    OFFICIALS  22$ 

4.  An  Ambassador  of  the  United  States  is  addressed: 
His  EXCELLENCY, 

(name) 

Ambassador    Extraordinary    and  Plenipotentiary  of    the 
United  States  of  America: 
SIR:— 


5.  A  Minister  of  the  United  States,  either: 
Esquire 

Envoy  Extraordinary  and  Minister  Plenipotentiary  of  the 
United  States  of  America, 

SIR:- 

or, 
,  Esquire, 

Minister,  resident  and  Consul  General  of  the  United  States 
of  America, 

SIR:— 


In  the  three  last  named  instances,  all  communications  are  con- 
cluded alike,  namely:  4 
I  am,  Sir, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

Envelopes  directed  to  Ambassadors  or  Ministers  should  contain, 
besides  the  address  above  given,  the  words  "American  Embassy" 
or  "American  Legation,"  according  to  the  grade  of  the  officer, 
together  with  the  name  of  the  city  and  country  where  the  Em- 
bassy or  Legation  may  be  located. 

Communications  to  Consuls  of  the  United  States  are  to  be 
addressed  the  same  in  all  respects  as  communications  to  Ministers. 


6.  General  Officers  of  the  Army  and  Navy  in  official  communi- 
cations, are  addressed  by  titles  only,  thus : 
The  Lieutenant-General  commanding  the  Army. 
The  Adjutant-General  of  the  Army. 

The  Major-General  commanding  the  Department  of  the  Lakes. 
The  Rear-Admiral,  commander-in-chief  of  the  Asiatic  station. 


226  HOW    TO    ADDRESS    GOVERNMENT    OFFICIALS 

7.  Below  the  rank  of  Brigadier-General   or   Rear-Admiral, 

officers  are  addressed  both  by  name  and  rank,  as  for  instance : 
Captain  John  Jones,  i8th  U.  S.  Infantry. 
Captain  S.  Morse,  commanding  U.  S.  S.  Lightning. 


8.  In  the  Department  of  Justice,  a  Judge  is  addressed: 
Hon.  Christian  C.  Kohlsaat,  U.  S.  District  Judge, 

Chicago,  111., 

A  District  Attorney  is  addressed: 
Henry  L.  Burnett,  Esq., 

U.  S.  District  Attorney,  New  York,  N.  Y. 


J      /X    &  *SJ  /P* 
stuKeccty^^ 

-        "  X/  ' 


+ 
^ 


PART   VI 

THE   CORRECT   FORMS    OF   VISITING 
CARDS,  INVITATIONS,  ETC. 


VISITING  CARDS 

Gentlemen's  Cards.— Plain,  cream  white,  thin  cardboard,  no 
ornaments,  no  fancy  writing.  Use  simple  engraved  script, 
printed  in  black.  Size  of  card,  3x1  >£  inches. 


Mr.  Edward  Hale  Davies, 


20 jo    Wheeler  Avenue. 


Use  sparingly  titles  or  "handles"  to  your  name,  such  as  Hon., 
General,  Colonel,  Dr.  Army  titles  ought  not  really  to  be  used 
when  the  bearer  has  not  seen  real  service.  If  he  is,  or  has  been, 
in  the  regular  army,  he  should  have  his  visiting  card  read  as  fol- 
lows: 

227 


228    CORRECT  FORMS  OF  VISITING    CARDS,   INVITATIONS 


Col.  Hugh  Dairy  tuple,  U.  S.A., 


Calumet  Club. 


A  physician   had  better  use  for  his  "private,"  not  "profes- 
sional," card  the  following  form: 


George  D.  Smith,  M.  D., 


1703  Michigan  Boulevard. 


It  is  better  form  still  to  omit  lettering  occupations  altogether. 
The  abbreviation  Rev.  is  allowable  in  front  of  a  clergyman's 
name,  even  if  followed  by  the  letters  D.D. 

Do  not  forget,  if  you  are  neither  an  officer,  nor  a  clergyman,  nor 
a  medical  practitioner,  to  prefix  your  name  by  Mr.  Should  you, 
however,  desire  to  write  your  name  on  a  card  to  "send  up"  to  the 
person  you  are  calling  on,  omit  the  Mr. 

Cards  are  "due" — that  is,  must  be  delivered  in  person — to  the 
host  and  hostess — one  for  each,  after  having  enjoyed  their  hos- 
pitality at  some  formal  function,  dinner,  ball,  musicale,  etc.  If 
prevented  from  calling,  a  note  must  accompany  the  cards  and  be 
sent  by  messenger.  Such  cards  are  also  "due"  after  a  first  invi- 


CORRECT  FORMS  OF  VISITING    CARDS,   INVITATIONS   229 

tation  which  you  have  been  obliged  to  decline.  These  formal 
calls  must  be  made  within  a  week  after  the  event. 

Cards  may  be  sent  "by  mail"  in  acknowledgment  of  an  invita- 
tion to  a  church  wedding;  or,  with  the  mention  "congratulations" 
written  by  hand  to  one  whose  engagement  is  announced,  or  who 
is  the  father  of  a  newly  born  baby.  Cards  of  condolence,  with  the 
written  words  ' '  with  deepest  sympathy, ' '  may  be  mailed  (but, 
better,  left  in  person)  in  cases  of  sorrow  or  bereavement. 

Men  rarely  exchange  cards,  nowadays.  However,  a  visitor  in 
your  city  may  be  welcomed  at  his  hotel  by  the  cards  of  acquaint- 
ances that  may  have  been  half  forgotten.  Then,  if  he  cares  to 
renew  the  erstwhile  intercourse,  he  calls  or  returns  the  cards. 
After  formal  "stag-parties,"  if  a  guest  is  not  an  intimate  friend, 
it  would  be  good  form  for  him  to  leave  a  card  at  his  entertainer's 
club  or  residence.  In  large  cities  this  is  done  quite  generally,  as 
people  there  are  more  formal  in  their  social  ways.  It  is  well,  at 
all  times,  for  one  to  remember  that  "courtesy  in  little  things  is  a 
sure  sign  of  good  breeding. " 

Ladies'  Cards. — As  to  color,  printing,  etc.,  the  rules  relating  to 
gentlemen's  visiting  cards  are  to  be  followed.  The  size  of  a  lady's 
card  is  fixed  just  now  by  custom  at  about  3^x2^  inches. 

If  the  lady  is  the  oldest  married  woman  in  the  oldest  branch  of 
the  family  she  may  omit  any  Christian  name  on  her  card;  thus: 


Mrs.  Stewart, 


25  Astor  Place. 


CORRECT  FORMS  OF  VISITING    CARDS,   INVITATIONS 


In  any  other  case  her  card  must  contain  her  husband's  full 
name,  thus: 


Mrs.  James  Gold  Stewart, 


2$  A  5 tor  Place. 


During  the  first  year  of  married  life — i.  e.,  during  the  period 
when  husband  and  wife,  just  returned  from  their  honeymoon  trip, 
are  calling  together  upon  their  friends  and  society  acquaintances, 
they  will  use  the  following  card ;  the  day,  in  the  left  corner,  indi- 
cating when  they  will  be  at  home  to  their  friends : 


Mr.  and  Mrs.  James  Gold  Stewart, 


Mondays. 


25  A  s tor  Place. 


Otherwise,  it  is  usual  when  the  wife  returns  formal  calls,  and 
does  so  alone,  for  her  to  leave  with  her  own  card  two  of  her  hus- 


CORRECT  FORMS  OF  VISITING    CARDS,   INVITATIONS    231 

band's,  one  'each  for  the  lady  and  gentleman  of  the  house  she  is 
visiting.  If  there  are  young  ladies,  in  the  house,  who  are  already 
"out" — i.  e.,  received  in  society,  she  will  add  one  more  of  her  own 
cards. 

Young  ladies  are  not  supposed  to  use  cards,  at  least  until  they 
are  out  of  their  teens.  When  they  are  "out,"  their  names  are 
added  on  their  mother's  card. 

After  the  young  lady  has  been  "in  society"  at  least  two  seasons 
she  may  have  her  personal  visiting  cards,  but  without  address.  In 
that  case  the  elder  or  eldest  daughter  of  the  family  uses  the 
family  name  without  Christian  name. 


Mrs.  James  Gold  Stewart, 

The  Misses  Stewart 


As  tor  Place. 


Miss  Stewart. 


232    CORRECT  FORMS  OF  VISITING    CARDS,   INVITATIONS 

The  younger  daughters  prefix  their  Christian  name  to  the  family 
name. 

The  day  of  the  week  when  the  lady  is  "at  home"  to  her  friends 
in  the  afternoon  is  inserted  in  the  left-hand  corner  o£  tbe  card. 
Sometimes  the  lady  prefers  to  limit  these  receptions  to  certain 
days,  then  the  card  reads : 


Mrs.  James  Gold  Stewart, 


First  and  Third 

Fridays  in  January,  25^Astor  Place, 

February  and  March. 


Mourning  Visiting  Cards,  with  a  black  border  of  varied 
breadth,  according  to  nearness  of  relationship,  are  very  properly 
used,  sizes  and  styles  being  otherwise  identical.  However,  it 
is  in  bad  taste  to  inscribe  a  reception  day  on  a  mourning  card,  as 
one  is  supposed  to  decline  all  calls  except  from  intimate  friends. 
In  fact,  mourning  cards  are  mostly  used  to  return  thanks  "by 
mail"  to  people  sending  condolence  cards. 

Cards  of  Introduction. — Ordinary  visiting  cards  are  used  for 
that  purpose,  with  the  addition  of  some  such  words  written  at  the 
bottom : 

Introducing  Archibald  Monroe,  Esq. 


CORRECT  FORMS  OF  VISITING    CARDS,   INVITATIONS    233 

Such  cards  must  be  enclosed  in  an  envelope  addressed  to  the 
person  to  whom  the  introduction  is  made,  but  left  open  when 
delivered  to  the  person  one^  wants  to  introduce. 


INVITATION  CARDS 

Cards  for  Social  Functions.— These  are  specially  engraved 
for  the  occasion,  a  good  size  being  about  4  x  2  j£  inches ;  cream 
white  Bristol  board,  absolutely  plain  engraving.  On  the  left-hand 
corner  the  object  of  the  invitation  is  stated :  Music,  for  a  musicale ; 
Dancing,  for  a  dancing  party,  etc. 


Mrs.  James  Gold  Stewart, 

At  Home, 
Tuesday  Evening,  February  Second. 


Music.  23  As  tor  Place. 


234    CORRECT  FORMS  OF  VISITING    CARDS,  INVITATIONS 

If  the  function  is  given  in  honor  of  some  distinguished  guest, 
the  invitation  is  generally  worded  as  follows : 


Mr.  and  Mrs.  James  Gold  Stewart 
request  the  pleasure  of 


company  on  Tuesday  evening, 

February  Second,  at  nine  o'clock. 

"Lord  Willoughby  d'Eresby, 

British  Ambassador  to    Washington. 

R.  5.   V.  P.  as  A  s tor  Place. 


The  name  of  the  guest  is  written  with  pen  on  the  dotted  line. 
The  letters  R.  S.  V.  P.  stand  for  the  French  words,  "Repondez, 
s'il  vous  plait,"  meaning  in  English:  "Answer,  if  you  please." 


CORRECT  FORMS  OF  VISITING    CARDS,  INVITATIONS    235 

Of  course,  a  reply  is  to  be  returned  at  once. 

Here  is  the  most  usually  employed  form  for  an  invitation  to  din- 
ner. The  name  and  date  are  to  be  filled  by  hand.  In  that  way 
one  engraved  plate  is  enough  for  all  dinner  parties.  Another 
card,  worded  the  same,  with  "luncheon"  inserte'd  in  place  of 
"dinner,"  and  the  hour  changed  to  "half -past  one,"  is  the  "cor- 
rect thing"  for  invitations  to  a  luncheon. 


Mr.  and  Mrs.  James  Gold  Stewart 
request  the  pleasure  of 

's 

company  at  dinner  on 

at  seven  o'clock. 

R.  S.  V.  P.  25  As  tor  Place. 


For  such  an  important  function  as  a  "ball"— i.  e.,  a  dancing 
party  on  a  particularly  elaborate  scale — double  sheets  of  thick, 
medium  size,  cream  white  note,  are  generally  used;  the  hour 
must  not  be  earlier  than  9 :  30,  and  on  the  lower  left  corner  the 
words  "Dancing  at  Eleven"  are  to  be  inserted.  Sometimes  the 
hostess  adds:  "Fancy  dress  de  rigueur";  meaning  that  all  the 
guests  are  expected  to  appear  in  fancy  costumes. 


236    CORRECT  FORMS  OF  VISITING    CARDS,   INVITATIONS 

Wedding  Cards.— Ought  to  be  issued  by  the  bride's  family  at 
least  two  weeks  before  the  wedding  takes  place. 

If  it  is  to  be  a  church  wedding  the  following  invitation  on  a 
double  sheet  of  note  paper  is  correct: 


Mr.  and  Mrs.  Edward  Hall 

request  your  presence 

at  the  marriage  of  their  daughter 

Eleanor  Augusta 

to 

Mr.  George  Gordon  Lewis 
Saturday  morning,  June  first 

at  twelve  o'clock 
St.  Margaret  Church. 


CORRECT  FORMS  OF  VISITING    CARDS,  INVITATIONS     237 

A  more  formal  invitation  to  a  wedding  reception  is  engraved 
thus  and  printed  on  a  double  sheet  note  of  paper. 


tyn*4r€W'  J5&//&&  ^& 


238    CORRECT  FORMS  OF  VISITING    CARDS,  INVITATIONS 

In  the  same  envelope  a  select  number  of  friends  should  receive 
the  following  additional  invitation  on  a  card : 


Reception 

from  half-past  twelve 
until  three  o'clock. 


root  Pine  Avenue. 


Should  it  be  expected  that  the  general  public  might  crowd  the 
church  to  the  point  of  inconvenience,  a  small,  neat,  engraved 
card  may  be  added  to  the  two  others,  worded  as  follows: 


Please  present  this  card  at 

St.  Margaret  Church, 

Saturday \  June  first, 

at  twelve  o'clock. 


CORRECT  FORMS  OF  VISITING    CARDS,  INVITATIONS    239 

For  a  silver  or  golden  wedding  an  invitation  on  note  paper  will 
be  correct  if  worded  as  follows,  and  ^engraved  without  any  flour- 
ishes: 


1871. 


Monogram. 


1896. 


Mr.  and  Mrs.  Henry  Winthrop  Dale, 

at  home 

Tuesday,  June  twelfth, 

from  four  until  six> 

and  from  nine  until  eleven  o'clock. 

3051  Elm  Street. 


WEDDING  ANNIVERSARIES 

• 

The  first  anniversary  is  called  the  cotton  wedding. 

The  second,  the  paper  wedding. 

The  third,  the  leather  wedding. 

The  fifth,  the  wooden  wedding. 

The  seventh,  the  woolen  wedding. 

The  tenth,  the  tin  wedding. 

The  twelfth,  the  silk  and  fine  linen  wedding. 

The  thirteenth,  the  pearl  wedding. 


40    CORRECT  FORMS  OF  VISITING    CARDS,   INVITATIONS 

The  fifteenth,  the  crystal  wedding. 
The  twentieth,  the  china  wedding. 
The  twenty-fifth,  the  silver  wedding. 
The  fiftieth,  the  golden  wedding. 
The  seventy-fifth,  the  diamond  wedding. 


LEAVE-TAKING 

It  is  customary,  although  not  quite  as  generally  done  as  for 
merly,  to  leave  or  mail  visiting  cards  to  all  one's  mere  acquaint- 
ances (friends  being  notified  by  visit  or  letter),  when  about  to 
either  change  one's  habitual  residence  or  undertake  a  journey  of 
some  duration.  Ordinary  visiting  cards  are  used  with  the  letters 
P.  P.  C.  written  on  the  left-hand  corner.  These  are  the  initials 
of  the  French  phrase,  "Pour  prendre  conge,"  meaning  "To  take 
leave."  The  custom  is  commendable.  A  separate  card  ought  to 
be  sent  for  each  grown-up  member  of  the  family. 

NOTIFICATION  OF   BIRTHS  AND  FUNERALS 

Sometimes,  to  announce  to  acquaintances  the  arrival  of  a  little 
stranger,  a  tiny  card  is  engraved  with  the  ^baby's  name  and  the 
date  of  his  birth,  thus: 


Harold  Jay  Stewart, 

May  first.  25  Astor  Place. 


Or  a  notification  by  the  parents  may  be  sent,  engraved  on  note 
paper. 

The  proper  thing,  in  either  case,  is  to  return  cards  with  the 
word  "congratulations"  written  on  the  left-hand  corner. 


CORRECT  FORMS  OF  VISITING    CARDS,   INVITATIONS   24! 

Invitations  to  funerals  are  engraved  on  heavily  black-bordered 
note  paper,  and  may  be  worded  as  follows,  although  there  are  no 
strict  rules  in  the  matter : 


you  are  respectfully  invited 

to  attend  the  funeral  of 

Mr.  Edward  Deene  Harrison, 

to  take  place  from  his  late  residence^ 

2013  Michigan  boulevard, 

Monday,  June  eighteenth^ 

at  three  o'clock. 


Service  at  Grace  Episcopal  church. 
Burial  at  Roseland  .cemetery. 


Roman  Catholics  generally  add,  at  the  bottom,  R.  I.  P.  (Latin-. 
"Requiescat  in  pace),  meaning,  "May  he  rest  in  peace." 


PART  VII 
LEGAL    FORMS 

BILL  OF  SALE 

Iknow  all  /IDen  bs  tbese  presents, 

THAT , 

of  the in  the  County  of 

and  State  of part,  of  the  first  part,  for  an  in 

consideration  of  the  sum  of Dollars, 

lawful  money  of  the  United  States  of  America,  to 

in  hand  paid,  at  or  before  the  ensealing  and 

delivery  of  these  Presents,  by 

of  the  second  part,  the  receipt  whereof  is  hereby  acknowledged, 
ha...  granted,  bargained,  sold  and  delivered,  and,  by  these  Pres- 
ents, do  grant,  bargain,  sell  and  deliver,  unto  the  said  part.,  of  the 
second  part,  all  the  following  GOODS,  CHATTELS,  and  PROP- 
ERTY, to-wit: 


To  have  and  to  hold  the  said  Goods,  Chattels  and  Property 

unto  the  said  part,  of  the  second  part heirs, 

executors,  administrators  and  assigns,  to  and  for own 

proper  use  and  behoof,  forever. 

And  the  said  part.,  of  the  first  part  do...  vouch to  be 

the  true  and  lawful  owner.,  of  the  said  Goods,  Chattels  and  Prop. 

erty,  and  have  in full  power,  good  right  and 

awful  authority,  to  dispose  of  the  said  Goods,  Chattels  and  Prop- 
erty, in  manmer  as  aforesaid :  And do....,  for 

heirs,  executors  and  administrators,  covenant  and  agree  to  and 
with  the  said  part.,  of  the  second  part  to  Warrant  and  Defend 

242 


LEGAL   FORMS  243 

the  said  Goods,  Chattels  and  Property  to  the  said  part.,  of  the 

second  part executors,  administrators,  and  assigns, 

against  the  lawful  claims  and  demands  of  all  and  every  person 
and  persons  whomsoever. 

In  Witness  Whereof, have  hereunto  set 

hand  and  seal..,  the day  of 

in  the  year  One  Thousand  Nine  Hundred  and 

Sealed  and  Delivered  in 
Presence  of  [SEAL] 

[SEAL] 


ASSIGNMENT  OF  MORTGAGE 

Iknow  all  /iDen  b$  tbese  presents, 

THAT 

the  part...  of  the  first  part,  in  consideration  of  the  sum  of. 


Dollars,  lawful  money  of  the  United  States  of  America, 

to....; in  hand  paid  by 

the  part...  of  the  second  part,  at  or  before  the  ensealing  and  deliv- 
ery of  these  Presents,  the  receipt  whereof  is  hereby  acknowl- 
edged, ha...  granted,  bargained,  sold,  assigned,  transferred,  and 
set  over,  and,  by  these  Presents,  do...  grant,  bargain,  sell,  assign, 
transfer,  and  set  over  unto  the  said  part...  of  the  second  part, 

heirs,  executors,  administrators,  and  assigns,  a 

certain,  INDENTURE  OF  MORTGAGE,  bearing  date  the 

day  of in  the  year  One  Thousand  Nine  Hundred 

and made  by 

and  all right,  title,  and  interest  to  the  premises 

therein  described,  as  follows,  to-wit: 

which  said  Mortgage  is  recorded  in  the  Recorder's  Office  of  the 


244  LEGAL    FORMS 

County  of In  the  State  of in  Book  No, 

of  Mortgages,  at  page 

Together  with  the therein  described,  and  the  money 

due  or  to  grow  due  thereon,  with  interest,  to  waive  and  to  hold 

the  same  unto  the  said  part...  of  the  second  part, 

executors,  administrators,  or  assigns,  FOREVER: 

subject  only  to  the  provisos  in  the  said  Indenture  of  Mortgage 
contained: 

And do,  for heirs,  executors,  and 

administrators,  covenant  with  the  said  part...  of  the  second 

part heirs,  executors,  administrators,  and 

assigns,  that  there  is  now  actually owing  on 

said and  Mortgage,  in  principal  and  interest, 

...Dollars, 

and  that have  good  right  to  assign  the  same: 

And do  hereby  make,  constitute,  and  appoint  the  said 

part...  of  the  second  part true  and  lawful  Attorney, 

irrevocably,  in name,  or  otherwise,  but  at own 

proper  costs  and  charges,  to  have,  use,  and  take  all  lawful  ways 
and  means  for  the  recovery  of  the  said  money  and  interest,  and, 

in  case  of  payment,  to  discharge  the  same  as  fully  as 

might,  or  could  do,  if  these  Presents  were  not  made. 

In  Witness  Whereof, have  hereunto  set hand 

and  seal,  this .- day  of in  the  year  One 

Thousand  Nine  Hundred  and 

Sealed  and  Delivered  in 

Presence  of  [SEAL] 

[SEAL] 


MORTGAGE 

Unfcenture,  MADE  this day  of 

in   thy  year  of  our   Lord    One  Thousand  Nine  Hundred  and 
BETWEEN 

of  the in  the  County  of and  State 

of party  of  the  first  part,  and 

of  the in  the  County  of 


LEGAL    FORMS  245 

and  State  of party  of  the 

second  part. 
Whereas,  The  said  party  of  the  first  part  is  justly  indebted  to 

the  said  party  of  the  second  part  in  the  sum  of 

.....Dollars  secured  to  be  paid  by certain 


Now,  therefore,  this  Indenture  Witnesseth,  That  the  said 
party  of  the  first  part,  for  the  better  securing  the  payment  of  the 
money  aforesaid,  with  interest  thereon  according  to  the  tenor  and 

effect  of  the  said above  mentioned,  and 

also  in  consideration  of  the  further  sum  of  One  Dollar  to 

in  hand  paid  by  the  said  party  of  the  second  part,  at  the  delivery 
of  these  Presents,  the  receipt  whereof  is  hereby  acknowledged, 
ha...  granted,  bargained,  sold,  remised,  released,  conveyed, 
aliened,  and  confirmed,  and  by  these  Presents  do...  grant,  bar- 
gain, sell,  remise,  release,  convey,  alien,  and  confirm,  unto  the 

said  party  of  the  second  part,  and  to .....heirs  and 

assigns    FOREVER,  all   the    following  described   lot..,   piece..,  or 

parcel..,  of  land,  situate  in  the  County  of and  State 

of and  known  and  described  as  follows,  to-wit: 


To  Have  and  to  Hold  the  Same,  Together  with  all  and  sin- 
gular the  tenements,  hereditaments,  privileges,  and  appurtenances 
thereunto  belonging,  or  in  any  wise  appertaining ;  and  also,  all  the 
estate,  interest,  and  claim  whatsoever,  in'law  as  well  as  in  equity, 
which  the  said  party  of  the  first  part  ha...  in  and  to  the  premises 


246  LEGAL   FORMS 

hereby  conveyed,  unto  the  said  party  of  the  second  part 

heirs  and  assigns,  and  to  their  only  proper  use,  benefit,  and 
behoof,  forever; 

Provided  always,  and  these  Presents  are  upon  this  EXPRESS 

CONDITION,  that  if  the  said  party  of  the  first  part 

heirs,  executors,  or  administrators,  shall  well  and  truly  pay,  or 

cause  to  be  paid,  to  the  said  party  of  the  second  part 

heirs,  executors,  administrators,  or  assigns,  the  aforesaid  sum  of 
money,  with  interest  thereon,  at  the  time  and  in  the  manner 

specified  in  the  above  mentioned according  to 

the  due  intent  and  meaning  thereof,  then  and  in  that  case  these 
Presents,  and  everything  herein  expressed,  shall  be  absolutely 
null  and  void. 

And  the  said  party  of  the  first  part,  for and 

heirs,  [executors,  and  administrators,  do...  hereby  covenant  and 
agree  with  the  said  party  of  the  second  part,  that  at  the  time  of 

the  delivery  hereof,  the  said  party  of  the  first  part 

the  lawful  owner,  of  the  premises  above  granted,  and  seized 

thereof,  in  fee  simple  absolute;  that will 

WARRANT  AND  DEFEND  the  above  granted  premises  in  the 
quiet  and  peaceable  possession  of  the  said  party  of  the  second 

part heirs  and  assigns  FOREVER,  that  they  are 

free  from  all  incumbrances  whatsoever,  and  that  the  said  party  of 
the  first  part  will,  in  due  season,  pay  all  taxes  and  assessments  on 
said  premises,  until  said  indebtedness  aforesaid  shall  be  fully  paid. 

And  the  said  party  of  the  first  part  do...  hereby  expressly 
release  and  waive  all  rights  under  and  *by  virtue  of  the  Home- 
stead Exemption  Laws  of  the  State in  and  to  said 

premises. 


In  Witness  Whereof,  the  said  party  of  the  first  part 

hereunto  set hand.,  and  seal.,  the  day  and  year  first 

above  written. 

Signed,  Sealed  and  Delivered 

in  the  Presence  of  [SEAL] 

[SEAL] 


LEGAL  FORMS  247 

FORM  OF  GENERAL  SUBMISSION  TO  ARBITRATION 

Whereas,  differences  have  for  a  long  time  existed,  and  are 

now  existing  and  pending,  between  John  Robinson,  of  C 

County  of  C ,  and  State  of   I ,  and  James  Smith,  of  the 

same  place,  in  relation  to  divers  and  sundry  matters  of  controversy 
and  dispute ;  Now,  therefore,  we,  the  undersigned,  John  Robin- 
son and  James  Smith,  aforesaid,  do  hereby  mutually  covenant, 
and  to  and  with  each  other,  that  Joseph  Jackson,  John  Black,  and 
William  Johnson,  of  said  C ,  or  any  two  of  them,  shall  arbi- 
trate, award,  and  determine  of  and  concerning  all  and  all  manner 
of  action  and  actions,  cause  and  causes  of  actions,  suits,  con- 
troversies, claims,  and  demands  whatsoever,  now  pending,  exist- 
ing, or  held,  by  and  between  us,  the  parties  aforesaid ;  and  we  do 
further  mutually  covenant  and  agree,  to  and  with  each  other,  that 
the  award  to  be  made  by  the  said  arbitrators,  or  any  two  of  them, 
shall  in  all  things  by  us  and  each  of  us,  be  well  and  faithfully  kept 
and  observed ;  Provided,  however,  that  the  award  aforesaid  be 
made  in  writing,  under  the  hands  of  the  said  Joseph  Jackson, 
John  Black,  and  William  Johnson,  or  any  two  of  them,  and  ready 
to  be  delivered  to  the  said  parties  in  difference,  or  to  such  of  them 
as  shall  desire  the  same,  on  the  second  day  of  January,  A.  D.  19 — . 

Witness  our  hands  and  Seals  this  seventh  day  of  September, 
A.  D.  19—. 
Signed,  sealed  and  delivered 

in  the  presence  of  JOHN  ROBINSON.     [SEAL] 

PETER  O'DONNELL,  JAMES  SMITH.  [SEAL] 

HENRY  GREEN. 


RELEASE   DEED 

IRnow  all  /iDen  bp  tbese  presents, 

THAT  I, of  the  County  of 

and  State  of for  and  in  consideration  of  one  dollar, 

and  for  other  good  and  valuable  considerations,  the  receipt 
whereof  is  hereby  confessed,  do  hereby  remise,  convey,  release, 
and  quit-claim  unto 

of  the  County  of and  State  of 


248  LEGAL    FORMS 

all  the  right,  title,  interest,  claim,  or  demand 

whatsoever,  I  may  have  acquired   in,  through  or  by  a  certain 

bearing  date  the day  of 

A.  D.  19 ,  and  recorded  in  the  Recorder's  Office  of 

County,  in  the  State  of .in  Book of  Records, 

page to  the  premises  therein  described,  as  follows,  to- wit: 


situated  in  the of County  of 

and  State  of ..together  with  all  the 

appurtenances  and  privileges  thereunto  belonging  or  'appertain- 
ing. 

Witness  my  hand.,  and  seal.,  this day 

of A.  D.  19 

[SEAL] 

[SEAL] 


RELEASE-GENERAL 

Ifcnow  all  flDen  bs  tbese  presents, 


THAT, 


of 

in  the  County  of and  State  of for 

and  in  consideration  of  the  sum  of 

lawful  money  of  the  United  States  of  America, 

to in  hand  paid  by 


ha...  remised,  released,  and  forever  discharged,  and,  by  these 


LEGAL    FORMS  249 

Presents,  do...,  for heirs, 

executors,  and  administrators,  remise,  release,  and   forever  dis- 
charge the  said .". 


heirs,  executors,  and  administrators,, 


ot  and  from  all  manner  of  actions,  cause,  and  causes  of  action, 
suits,  dues,  sums  of  money,  accounts,  reckonings,  bonds,  bills, 
specialties,  covenants,  contracts,  controversies,  agreements,  prom- 
ises ,  variances,  trespasses,  damages,  judgments,  executions, 
claims,  and  demands,  whatsoever,  in  law  or  in  equity,  which 

now  have  against ever  had,  or  which 

heirs,  executors,  or  administrators,  hereafter  can,  shall  or  may 
have,  for,  upon,  or  by  reason  of  any  'matter,  cause,  or  thing,  what- 
soever, from  the  beginning  of  the  world,  to  the  day  of  the  date  of 
these  Presents. 


In  Witness  Whereof, have  hereunto  set 

hand.,  and  seal.. 'the day  of in  the  year  of 

our  Lord  One  Thousand  Nine  Hundred  and < 

Sealed  and  Delivered 

in  the  Presence  of  [SEAL] 

[SEAL] 

[SEAL 


WARRANTY  DEED— STATUTORY  FORM 

Ubts  fln&enture  TKttitnessetb,  THAT  the  Grantor, 


of  the in  the  County  of 

and  State  of for  and  in  consideration  of  the 

sum  of Dollars  ,  in  hand  paid, 

Convey...  and  Warrant...  to 


250  LRGAL    FORMS 

of  the County  of and  State 

of the  following  described  Real  Estate,  to-wit: 

situated  in  the of , in  the  County 

of in  the  State  of hereby 

releasing  and  waiving  all  rights  under  and  by  virtue  of  the  Home- 
stead Exemption  Laws  of  this  State. 


Dated,  this day  of A.  D.  19 

-v [SEAL] 

[SEAL] 

[SEAL] 

[SEAL] 

STATE  OF } 

COUNTY  OF f 

in  and  for  said  County,  in  the 

State  aforesaid,  Do  Hereby  Certify,  That 

personally  known  to  me  to  be  the  same  person... 

whose  name .....subscribed  to 

the  foregoing  instrument,  appeared  before  me  this 
day  in  person,  and  acknowledged  that  ..he., 
signed,  sealed  and  delivered  the  said  Instrument 

as free  and  voluntary  act,  for  the  uses 

and  purposes  therein  set  forth,  including  the 
release  and  waiver  of  the  right  of  homestead. 

Given  under  my  hand  and seal, 

this day  of A.  D.IQ 


LEASE-SHORT  FORM 

ttbte  flnDenture,  MADE  this day 

of 19 

BETWEEN as  lessor,  and 

as  lessee: 

Witnesseth,  as  follows:   That  the  said,  lessor  hath  this  day 
leased  to  said  lessee  the  premises  known  as.. 


LEGAL    FORMS  25! 


.f. 


situate  in  the  City  of in  the  State  of 

to  be  occupied  as  a only  by  said  lessee, 

for  and  during  the  term  commencing  on  the day 

of A,  D.  19 and  ending  the day  of 

A.  D.  19 upon  the  terms  and  conditions  here- 
inafter set  forth,  and  said  lessee  hereby  accepts  said  lease  upon 
said  conditions,  and  covenants  to  perform  the  same  as  follows: 

ist.  The  said  lessee  shall  pay  to  the  lessor,  at  

in  said  City  of as  rent  for  said  demised  premises, 

for  said  term,  the  sum  of DOLLARS, 

payable*as  follows:  The  sum  of 

DOLLARS  upon  the  delivery  hereof,  for  rent  to  the 

day  of 19 and  the  further  sum  of 

DOLLARS  upon  the  first  day  of  each  and  every  month  thereafter 
during  the  continuance  of  the  term  hereby  created,  the  same 

being  monthly  rent  at  the  rate  of DOLLARS  per 

month,  payable  monthly  in  advance. 

2d.  Said  lessee  agrees  to  surrender  the  possession  of  said  prem- 
ises to  said  lessor  upon  the  termination  of  the  term  above  created, 
or  upon  the  forfeiture  of  this  lease,  as  hereinafter  provided ;  and 
further  agrees,  during  the  occupancy  of  said  demised  premises,  to 
maintain  'and  keep  the  same  in  as  jgood  'condition  and  repair  as 
the  same  shall  be  upon  taking  possession  thereof,  natural  wear, 
injury  by  fire,  or  other  inevitable  accident  excepted — damage  by 
fire,  or  other  calamity,  rendering  said  premises  untenable,  shall 
terminate  this  lease — there  shall  be  no  abatement  of  said  stip- 
ulated rent,  or  of  any  part  thereof,  so  long  as  said  lessee  shall 
retain  possession  of  said  demised  premises,  or  any  part  thereof. 

3d.     Said  lessee  agrees  to  pay  the  water  tax  upon  said  premises 

as  the  same  becomes  due  and  [payable,  and  will  take  reasonable 
and  necessary  precaution  against  freezing  of  the  water  pipes,  and 
that  no  rubbish  of  any  description  be  allowed  to  enter  the  drainage 
or  waste  pipes  of  said  premises,  and  will  pay  all  damages  or 


252  LEGAL    FORMS 

expense  occasioned  by  such  [neglect ;  will  clean  the  catch  basin 
and  furnace  as  occasion  may  require,  and  allow  no  deposit  of 
ashes,  or  other  rubbish,  in  or  upon  said  premises,  or  upon  any 
private  alley  adjacent  thereto;  no  cooking  stove  or  other  cooking 
apparatus  shall  be  placed  in  any  room  except  the  kitchen  and 
laundry.  Said  lessor  shall  have  reasonable  opportunity  to  inspect 
said  premises,  and  do  any  repairing  or  other  work  thereon  which 
he  shall  deem  necessary  for  the  preservation  of  the  property. 

4th.  To  allow  the  party  of  the  first  part  free  access  to  the 
premises  hereby  leased  for  the  purpose  of  examining  or  exhibiting 
the  same,  or  to  make  any  needful  repairs  or  alterations  of  said 
premises,  which  said  first  party  may  see  fit  to  make ;  also  to  allow 
to  have  placed  upon  said  premises,  at  all  times,  notice  of  "For 
Sale"  and  "To  Rent,"  and  will  not  interfere  with  the  same. 

5th.  Said  lessee  shall  not  assign  this  lease,  or  any  portion 
thereof,  nor  sub-let  said  premises,  or  any  part  thereof,  without 
the  written  consent  of  the  lessor,  endorsed  hereon.  In  case  said 
demised  premises  shall  be  vacated  during  said  term,  said  lessor 
may  take  immediate  possession  thereof  for  the  remainder  of  the 
term,  and,  in  his  discretion,  re-let  the  same  and  apply  the  proceeds 
upon  this  lease,  the  lessee  to  remain  liable  for  the  unpaid  balance 
of  the  rent. 

6th.  The  neglect  or  failure  of  said  lessee  to  keep  the  foregoing 
conditions  and  covenants,  or  any  or  either  of  them,  shall  consti- 
tute a  forfeiture  of  all  rights  under  this  lease,  and  the  further 
occupancy  of  said  demised  premises  after  such  forfeiture  by  said 
lessee  [shall  be  deemed,  held,  and  taken  'as  a  forcible  detainer 
thereof  by  said  lessee,  and  said  lessor  may,  without  notice,  re-enter 
and  take  possession  thereof,  and  with  or  without  force  and  with 
or  without  legal  process,  evict  and  dispossess  said  lessee  from  said 
above  demised  premises. 

7th.  The  foregoing  covenants  shall  be  obligatory  upon  the 
heirs,  executors,  administrators,  and  assigns  of  the  parties  hereto. 


In  Witness  Whereof,  The  said  parties  hereto  have  hereunto 
set  their  hands  and  seals,  this  day  and  year  first  above  written. 

[SEAL] 

[SEAL] 


LEGAL    FORMS  253 

ARTICLES  OF  AGREEMENT  FOR  WARRANTY  DEED 

Brttclcs  of  Bgreement,  MADE  this 

day  of in  the  year  of  our  Lord 

One  Thousand  Nine  Hundred  and 

Between 

party  of  the  first  part,  and 

party  of  the  second  part; 

Witnesseth,  That,  if  the  party  of  the  second  part  shall  first  make 
the  payments  and  perform  the  covenants  hereinafter  mentioned  on 

part  to  be  made  and  performed,  the  said  party  of  the 

first  part  hereby  covenants  and  agrees  to  convey  and  assure  to  the 
said  party  of  the  second  part,  in  fee  simple,  clear  of  all  incum- 
brances  whatever,  by  a  good  and  sufficient  Warranty  Deed,  the 
lot...,  piece...,  or  parcel...  of  ground,  situated  in  the  County  of 
...and  State  of...  ...known  and  described  as 


and  the  said  party  of  the  second  part  hereby  covenants  and  agrees 

to  pay  to  the  said  party  of  the  first  part  the  sum  of 

Dollars,  in  the  manner  following: 

with  interest  at  the  rate  of per  centum  per  annum,  pay- 
able  annually,  on  the  whole  sum  remaining  from  time  to 

time  unpaid,  and  to  pay  all  taxes,  assessments,  or  impositions  that 
may  be  legally  levied  or  imposed  upon  said  land,  subsequent  to 

the  year And  in  case  of  the  failure  of  the  said  party 

of  the  second  part  to  make  either  of  the  payments,  or  any  part 

thereof,  or  perform  any  of  the  covenants  on part  hereby 

made  and  "entered  into,  this  contract  shall,  at  the  option  !of  the 
party  of  the  first  part,  be  forfeited  and  determined,  and  the  party 

of  the  second  part  shall  forfeit  all  payments  made  by 

on  this  contract,  and  such  payments  shall  be  retained  by  the  said 
party  of  the  first  part  in  full  satisfaction  and  in  liquidation  of  all 

damages  by sustained,  and shall  have  the 

right  to  re-enter  and  take  possession  of  the  premises  aforesaid. 


254  LEGAL    FORMS 

It  la  Mutually  Agreed,  By  and  between  the  parties  hereto,  that 
the  time  of  payment  shall  be  the  essence  of  this  contract,  and 
that  all  the  covenants  and  agreements  herein  contained  shall 
extend  to  and  be  obligatory  upon  the  heirs,  executors,  adminis- 
trators and  assigns  of  the  respective  parties. 

In  Witness  Whereof,  The  parties  to  these  Presents  have  here- 
unto set  their  hands  and  seals,  the  day  and  year  first  above  written. 
Sealed  and  Delivered 

in  Presence  of [SEAL] 

[SEAL] 

[SEAL] 


WILL 

Ube  Xa0t  Will  anfc  Testament 

OF of  the 

of in  the  County 

of. and  State  of made 

and  published  the day  of in  the  year  of  our 

Lord  One  Thousand  Nine  Hundred  and, : 

In  the  Name  of  God,  Amen.  I, 

of  the of in  the  County  of 

and  State  of of  the  age  of years,  and 

being  of  sound  mind  and  memory,  do  hereby  make,  publish  and 
declare  this  my  LAST  WILL  AND  TESTAMENT  in  manner 
following,  that  is  to  say : 

FIRST— It  is  my  will  that  all  my  funeral  expenses  and  all  my 
just  debts  be  fully  paid. 

SECOND — After  the  payment  of  my  just  debts  and  funeral 
expenses,  I  give  and to 


LEGAL    FORMS 


255 


LASTLY — I  hereby  nominate  and  appoint 

to  be  Execut of  this  my  last  Will  and  Testament,  hereby 

revoking  all  former  Wills  by  me  made. 
In  Witness  Whereof,  I  have  hereunto  set  my  hand  and  seal, 

the day  of in  the  year  of  our  Lord  One 

Thousand  Nine  Hundred  and 

[SEAL] 

The  above  Instrument,  consisting  of..... pages,  was  now 

here  subscribed  by the  Testat in  the 

presence  of  each  of  us ;   and  was  at  the  same  time  declared  by 

to  be Last  Will  and  Testament,  and  we,  at 

request,  and  in presence,  and  in  the  presence  of  each 

other,  subscribe  our  names  as  attesting  witnesses. 

of 

; of 


PART  VIII.     MISCELLANY. 


PROPER  SPELLING  AND  MEANING 

OF 

LATIN,   FRENCH  AND  ITALIAN  WORDS 

Often  used  in  letter  writing. 


alter  ego,  second  self. 
au  revoir,  goodby  for  the  pres- 
ent. 

amour-propre,  conceit,  egotism, 
au  fait,  expert,  informed. 

bouleverser,  to  upset, 
bizarre,  odd,  fanciful, 
bete  noire,  a  bugbear. 

contretemps,  a  "hitch." 

coup  de  grace,  finishing  stroke. 

couleur  de  rose,  in  a  favorable 
light. 

conge,  dismissal. 

carte  blanche,  free  scope. 

con  amore,  with  delight. 

connoisseur,  an  expert. 

comme  il  faut,  most  proper. 

coup  d'oeil,  glance. 

conversazione,  a  literary  gath- 
ering. 

con  gusto,  with  delight. 

dramatis  personae,  the  charact- 
ers in  the  play, 
denouement,  outcome, 
douceur,  gratuity,  "tip." 


256 


dilettante,  an  expert  in  art  of 

music, 
distingue,  distinguished  in  looks 

and  manners, 
de  trop,  in  the  way  (one  too 

many). 

esprit  de  corps,  mutual  under- 
standing between  people  of 
the  same  cloth,  etc. 

entente  cordiale,  a  pleasant  un- 
derstanding. 

enfant  gate,  a  spoiled  child. 

entre  nous,  between  us  and  the 
lamp-post. 

embarras  de  richesses,  too  much 
of  a  good  thing. 

empressement,  eager  atten- 
tions. 

eperdu,  bewildered. 

esclandre,  a  sensation. 

ennui,  weariness,  boredom. 

en  famille,  within  the  family 
circle. 

empresse,  most  attentive. 

fidus  Achates,  bosom  friend, 
fait  accompli,  settled  matter. 


LATIN,     FRENCH    AND    ITALIAN    WORDS 


fiasco,  a  total  failure, 
furore,  enthusiasm  at  its  high- 
est pitch. 

fe'te-champetre,  a  garden  party, 
fiance,  promised  husband, 
fiancee,  promised  wife, 
flaneur,  an  idle  lounger. 

gratis,  free  of  charge, 
hors  de  combat,  disabled, 
heedless 


insouciance, 
cern. 


uncon- 


matinee,  afternoon  party  or  per- 
formance. 

mauvaise'honte,  false  modesty, 
manage,  married  couple, 
minus,  less, 
major-domo,  house-steward. 

nonchalance,  cool  indifference, 
nolens  volens,  willy-nilly. 

outr6,  exaggerate. 

parti,   a   "catch"   (a  desirable 
husband  or  wife). 


prestige,  glamour. 

piquant,  lively. 

protege"  (m),  protegee  (f),  one 
under  the  protection  of  an- 
other. 

parvenu,  newly  enriched. 

partie  carree,  two  couples  hav- 
ing a  pleasant  time. 

quid  pro  quo,  tit  for  tat 
qui-vive.  on  the  alert. 

rencontre,  a  meeting, 
regime,  system. 

sine  qua  non,  an  absolute  con- 
dition. 

sang-froid,  self-possession, 
savoir-faire,  clever  ways, 
savoir-vivre,  tactful  manners, 
sans  c6r6monie,  informally. 
soir6e,  evening  party. 

tete  montSe,  much  excited  dis- 
position, 
triste,  sad,  painful. 

verve,  dash,  liveliness. 


ABBREVIATIONS 

USED  IN  BUSINESS   CORRESPONDENCE 


.at 


a/c,  oracct account 

Agt agent. 

Amt amount 

bl ."Darrel. 

B/L bill  of  lading 

bu...  ....bushel. 


C.  F.  I cost,  freight  and 

insurance. 

c/o care  of. 

Co Company. 

C.  O.  D cash  on  deliv- 
ery. 

Cr ...creditor. 


ABBREVIATIONS 


cts cents. 

cwt hundred  weight. 

Dft draft. 

Dr debtor. 

E.  E errors  excepted. 

E.  &  O.  E errors  and  omis- 

sions excepted. 

F.  O.  B free  on  board. 

hhd hogshead. 

hund hundreds. 

Inv invoice. 

inst  present  month. 

£ pound  sterling. 

Ib pound  weight. 

mdse merchandise. 

Messrs plural  of  Mr. 

mos...,          ...months. 


No.. number. 

Nos numbers. 

% per  centum. 

Obt.  or  obdt... obedient. 

Pay't payment. 

Pd paid. 

Pkge package. 

Pks pecks. 

prox nexfmonth. 

pt pint. 

qt quart. 

quar quarterly. 

Reed received. 

ult last  month. 

wt weight. 

yds yards. 

yrs years. 


USE  OF  PUNCTUATION  MARKS. 

[,]  The  Comma  marks  the  shortest  pauses  in  reading  aloud  and 
the  smallest  divisions  in  writing. 

[;]  The  Semicolon  divides  simple  sentences  when  the  comma 
does  not  render  the  meaning  of  simple  sentences  clear  enough. 

[:]  The  Colon  announces  something  further  coming,  like  a 
speech,  a  description. 

[.]  The  Full  Stop  or  Period  is  used  at  the  end  of  every  com- 
plete sentence. 

[?]  The  Interrogation  mark  is  used  when  a  question  is  asked. 

[!]  The  Exclamation  point  follows  words  or  sentences  that  ex- 
press sudden  emotions. 

["  "]  The  Quotation  marks  indicate  that  some  one  is  speaking, 
and  are  used  also  to  enclose  words  taken  from  other  writings. 

[  ()  ]  The  Parentheses  include  some  explanatory  clause  not 
essential  to  the  sentence. 

[  ]  The  Brackets  include  a  word  or  sentence  to  supply  some 
deficiency. 

[ — ]  The  Dash  marks  a  break  in  the  sentence. 


ETIQUETTE. 

IN  PUBLIC — IN    THE   PARLOR — IN    THE   DINING-ROOM — 

IN  DRESS  AND  HABITS — IN  ONE'S  SPEECH — 

IN  MAKING  CALLS. 

I.— In  Public. 

DON'T  forget  to  keep  to  the  right,  whether  riding  or  walking. 
Don't  elbow  people,  or  if  you  do  it  unwillingly,  excuse  yourself. 
Don't  stare  at  people  or  laugh  at  their  peculiarities. 
Don't  allow  a  lady  you  escort  to  carry  a  package. 
Don't  carry  your  cane  or  umbrella  so  as  to  annoy  others. 
Don't  smoke  whenever  and  wherever  it  may  inconvenience  ladies. 
Don't  give  your  arm,  in  the  daytime,  to  a  lady  who  is  not  your 

mother,  wife  or  sister,  or  an  elderly  or  invalid  lady. 
Don't  bow  to  a  lady  before   she  recognizes  you  herself  by  a 

smile  or  bow. 
Don't  salute  a  lady  with  a  gesture  of  the  hand,  but  by  taking  off 

your  hat. 

Don't  apologize  when  you  shake  hands  with  your  glove  on. 
Don't  forget  to  render  all  necessary  services  to  ladies  in  need 

of  them. 
Don't   presume   upon   a    service    thus    rendered    to    force    your, 

acquaintance. 
Don't  be  in  haste  to  introduce;  find  out  first  if  it's  mutually 

agreeable. 
Don't  rush  for  a  seat  in  a  car  or  theater,  against  every  law  of 

politeness. 

Don't  occupy  more  space  in  a  car  than  you  are  entitled  to. 
Don't  talk  at  a  theater  or  concert  while  the  performance  is  going 

on. 
Don't  leave  a  public  performance,   except  between  the  acts  or 

when  it  is  over. 
Don't  take  two  ladies  upon  your  arms,  except  for  their  protection. 

II.— In  the  Parlor. 

DON'T  wear  your  overcoat,  or  overshoes,  or  take  your  umbrella, 

into  the  parlor. 
Don't  stare  around  the  room. 
Don't  ask  questions  about  the  price  of  the  furniture. 
Don't  offer  to  shake  hands  with  a  lady;  the  offer  must  come 

from  her. 

259 


260  ETIQUETTE. 

Don't  handle,  without  permission,  the  bric-a-brac  about  the  room. 

Don't  be  in  a  hurry  to  get  to  a  seat. 

Don't  fail  to  rise  whenever  a  lady  enters  the  room. 

Don't  be  distant;  don't  be  effusive;  be  cordial. 

Don't  stretch  yourself  anywhere  except  in  your  own  apartment. 

Don't  be  fidgeting  or  balancing  upon  your  chair. 

Don't  introduce  ladies  to  gentlemen,  but  gentlemen  to  ladies. 

Don't  play  or  sing  unless  invited  by  your  hostess. 

Don't  be  always  touching  people  when  addressing  them. 

Don't  talk  in  a  loud,  boisterous  voice. 

Don't  speak  to  any  one  across  the  room. 

Don't  whisper  in  company. 

Don't  boast  of  the  big  people  you  know  to  people  who  don't 

know  therm 
Don't  make  fun  of  any  one  except  in  the  mildest  form;  better 

avoid  it  altogether. 

Don't  tell  stories  of  a  doubtful  character. 
Don't  interrupt;  don't  contradict;  don't  be  quarrelsome. 
Don't  spin  long  yarns,  even  when  asked  to;  avoid  "chestnuts." 
Don't  be  inattentive  when  other  people  are  talking. 
Don't  be  noisy,  either  as  a  winner  or  as  a  loser. 
Don't  read  a  book  or  even  a  newspaper  in  company. 
Don't  keep  looking  at  your  watch,  as  if  bored. 
Don't  pretend  to  go  and  then  stay ;  avoid  prolonged  good-byes. 
Don't  stay  too  long  anywhere. 

III. — In  the  Dining-Room. 

DON'T  keep  other  people  waiting;  be  there  in  time. 
Don't  lie  back  in  your  chair  or  place  your  elbows  on  the  table. 
Don't  seat  yourself  until  all  the  ladies  are  seated. 
Don't  sit  sideways,  but  straight  to  the  table. 
Don't  use  your  napkin  as  a  bib.    Let  it  fall  across  your  lap. 
Don't  bend  your  head  for  each  mouthful.     Sit  erect. 
Don't  cut  your  bread.     Break  it  off. 
Don't  use  your  knife  to  carry  food  to  your  mouth. 
Don't  introduce  your  spoon  point  first — but  sideways — into  your 

mouth. 

Don't  speak  with  your  mouth  full  or  even  half  full. 
Don't  drink  a  glassful  at  one  gulp. 

Don't  bring  your  glass  higher  than  your  lips;   then  incline  it 
gradually. 


ETIQUETTE.  261 

Don't  keep  your  elbows  away  from   your  body  when  eating  or 

drinking. 
Don't  use  anything  but  your  fork  to  bring  or  take  away  any  solid 

food. 
Don't  wipe  your  face  with  your  napkin ;  it  is  for  the  lips  and 

beard  only. 

Don't  forget  to  see  that  all  the  ladies  are  served  before  you. 
Don't  neglect  the  ladies  to  your  right  and  left. 
Don't  look  worried  if  any  small  accident  should  happen. 
Don't  use  toothpick,  even  behind  your  hand. 
Don't  leave  your  fork  and  knife  on  your  plate  when  sending  for  a 

second  supply. 
Don't  pile  up  all  the  side-dishes  upon  your  plate  when  it  is  to 

be  removed. 

Don't  come  to  the  table  half  dressed,  half  washed,  half  combed. 
Don't  overeat.     Don't  leave  the  table  before  the  others. 

IV.— In  Your  Dress  and  Habits. 

DON'T  let  one  day  pass  without  a  thorough  cleansing  of  your 

person. 

Don't  sit  to  your  evening  meal  before  a  complete  toilet. 
Don't  use  hair  dye,  hair  oil  or  pomades. 
Don't  wear  evening  dress  in  the  daytime. 
Don't  wear  jewelry  of  a  gaudy  character,  or  not  genuine. 
Don't  overdress  yourself  or  walk  affectedly. 
Don't  wear  slippers  or  dressing-gown  or  smoking- jacket  out  of 

your  own  room. 

Don't  sink  your  hands  in  your  trousers'  pockets. 
Don't  whistle  in  public  places,  nor  inside  houses  either. 
Don't  use  your  fingers  or  fists  to  beat  a  tattoo  upon  floor,  desk 

or  window  panes. 
Don't  bring  a  smell  of  spirits  or  tobacco  into  the  presence  of 

ladies. 

Don't  chew  tobacco;  of  all  habits,  it  is  possibly  the  nastiest. 
Don't  drink,  spirits;  or,  if  you  must  drink,  don't  dp  it  during 

business  hours. 
Don't  examine  other  people's  papers  or  letters  scattered  on  their 

desks  or  tables,  even  in  their  presence. 

V.— In  Your  Speech. 

DON'T  use  elegant  to  mean  everything  that  pleases  you. 
Don't  say  genteel  for  well-bred. 
Don't  say  ain't  for  isn't. 


262  ETIQUETTE. 

Don't  say  I  done  it  for  /  did  it. 

Don't  say  he  is  older  than  me;  say  older  than  I. 

Don't  say  she  does  not  see  any;  say  she  does  not  see  at  all. 

Don't  say  not  as  I  know;  say  not  that  I  know. 

Don't  say  he  calculates  to  get  off;  say  he  expects  to  get  off. 

Don't  say  he  don't;  say  he  doesn't. 

Don't  say  she  is  some  better;  say  she  is  somewhat  better. 

Don't  say  where  are  you  stopping?    Say  where  are  you  staying? 

'Don't  say  you  was;  say  you  were. 

Don't  say  /  say,  says  I,  but  simply  /  said. 

Don't  sign  your  letters,  yours,  etc.,  but  yours  truly. 

Don't  say  lay  for  lie;  lay  expresses  action ;  lie  expresses  rest. 

Don't  say  them  bonnets;  say  those  bonnets. 

Don't  say  party  for  person. 

Don't  use  slangy  words ;  they  are  vulgar. 

Don't  use  profane  words;  they  are  sinful. 

VI.— Etiquette  of  Calls. 

In  the  matter  of  making  calls  it  is  the  correct  thing : 
For  the  caller  who  arrived  first  to  leave  first. 
To  return  a  first  call  within  a  week  and  in  person. 
To  call  promptly  and  in  person  after  a  first  invitation. 
For  the  mother  or  chaperon  to  invite  a  gentleman  to  call. 
To  call  within  a  week  after  any  entertainment  to  which  one  has 

been  invited. 
To  call  upon  an  acquaintance  who  has  recently  returned  from 

a  prolonged  absence. 
To  make  the  first  call  upon  people  in  a  higher  social  position,  if 

one  is  asked  to  do  so. 
To  call,  after  an  engagement  has  been  announced,  or  a  marriage 

has  taken  place,  in  the  family. 

For  the  older  residents  in  the  city  or  street  to  call  upon  the  new- 
comers to  their  neighborhood. 
After  a  removal  from  one  part  of  the  city  to  another,  to  send  out 

cards  with  one's  new  address  upon  them. 
To  ascertain  what  are  the  prescribed  hours  for  calling  in  the  place 

where  one  is  living,  or  making  a  visit,  and  to  adhere  to  those 

hours. 

For  a  gentleman  to  ask  for  the  lady  of  the  house  as  well  as  the 
young  ladies,  and  to  leave  cards  for  her  as  well  as  for  the 
head  of  the  family. 


THE   LEADING  SYNONYMS  OF  THE 
ENGLISH   LANGUAGE 


ABACK 


APPRECIATE 


arbitrary, 


Aback— Taken   aback,   backward, 
unexpectedly  checked. 

Abandon  —  Forsake,    leave,    give 
up,  renounce. 

Abasement— Humilation,    degra- 
dation, disgrace. 

Abate— Lessen,  reduce,  diminish, 
mitigate. 

Abbreviate  —  Shorten,    reduce, 
abridge. 

Abdicate— Resign,  give  up,  relin- 
quish. 

Aberration— Illusion,    hallucina- 
tion. 

Abet— Encourage,  countenance,  as- 
sist, help,  promote. 

Abide— Dwell,  sojourn,  stay. 

Ability— Skill,  capacity,  genius. 

Able— Vigorous,   strong,    capable, 
powerful,  clever. 

Abrupt— Sudden,  curt,  rough. 

Absolute— Positive,  arbitrs 
real. 

Abstruse— Profound,  subtle,  hid- 
den. 

Absurd  —  Ridiculous,    irrational, 
silly. 

Abundance— Plenitude,  richness, 
profusion. 

Abuse— Vilify,  revile,  traduce. 

Accept— Receive,  take,  accede  to, 
assent. 

Acceptable— Agreeable,  pleasing, 
gratifying. 

Accessible  —  Approachable,    easy 
of  access. 

Accident— Chance,  misfortune. 

Acclamation  —  Applause,  cheer- 
ing, enthusiastic  approval. 

Accommodate-Oblige,  aid,  serve. 

Accompany— Escort,   attend,   go 
with. 

Accord— Agree,  consent,  concur. 

Account— Description,  ;statement. 

Accrue— Result,  issue,  ensue. 

Accurate— Exact,  true,  correct. 

Acknowledge— Admit,    concede, 
confess. 

Acquiesce  —  Consent,  agree,  com- 
ply. 

Acquire — Obtain,  win,  procure. 

Active— Diligent,  alert,  busy. 

Actuate— Incite,  move,  induce. 

Adage— Saying,  proverb,  maxim. 

Add— Sum,  cash  up,  increase,    led. 

Addicted— Accustomed,  habituat- 

Address— Skill,  dexterity;  speech, 
oration,  harangue,  sermon. 


Adept— Proficient,  skilful,  prac- 
tised. 

Adhere— Cling,  hold,  cohere. 

Adjacent— Bordering,  near,  ad- 
joining, contiguous. 

Adjourn— Defer,  postpone,  put  off, 


prorogue. 
Adi    * 


Imire— Regard,  esteem,  love, 

Admit— Concede,  accept,  permit. 

Adore — Love,  worship,  cherish, 
idolize. 

Adroit— Clever,  skilful,  accom- 
plished, dexterous. 

Advantage— Promotion,  benefit, 
good,  avail,  gain. 

Adverse— Contrary,  hostile,  op- 
posed, conflicting. 

Advice — Suggestion,  admonition, 
counsel,  warning. 

AiFection— Gentleness,  kindness, 
love,  attachment. 

Affliction— Trouble,  distress,  sor- 
row, grief. 

Afford— Supply,  give,  bestow. 

Aforesaid— Above-mentioned,  pre- 
ceding. 

Alarm— Fear,  dismay,  surprise, 
apprehension. 

Allege— Statte,  declare,  affirm. 

Allot— Assign,  appoint,  apportion, 
divide. 

Allude— Refer,  suggest,  hint. 

Allure— Entice,  attract,  beguile. 

Ambiguous— Vague,  doubtful, un- 
certain, obscure. 

Amiable — Genial,  agreeable, 
friendly,  engaging. 

Ample— Sufficient,  abundant,  plen- 
tiful, copious. 

Amuse— Divert,  entertain,  beguile, 
recreate. 

Animate— Erliven,  cheer,  arouse, 
quicken. 

Animosity— Anger,  opposition, 
hatred,  rancor. 

Annals— Records,  chronicles,  his- 
tories. 

Annihilate— Destroy,  uproot,  ex- 
tirpate. 

Annoy— Vex,  irritate,  tease. 

Apathy— Indifference,  careless- 
ness, impassibility. 

Aphorism— Proverb,  maxim,  epi- 
gram, adage. 

Apology— Justification,  plea,  de- 
fense, exculpation. 

Apparent— Manifest,  clear,  dis- 
tinct, ostensible. 

Applause— Praise,  acclamation, 
plaudit.  [regard. 

Appreciate— Prize,  value,  esteem, 


263 


264  LEADING    SYNONYMS 

APPREHENSION 


BURDEN 


Apprehension— Fear,  alarm, 
dread,  emotion. 

Appropriate— Apt,  suitable,  har- 
monious. 

Awprove— Accept,  sanction,  com- 
mend, like, 

Apt— Suitable,  fit,  appropriate. 

Arbitrary— Tyrannical,  s  e  1  f-w  i  1- 
led,  absolute. 

Ardent— Enthusiastic,  fervent,  in- 
tense, glowing. 

Arduous— Trying,  difficult,  hard, 
laborious. 

Arrange— Classify,  place,  dispose, 
assort,  array. 

Arrest— Seize,  detain,  apprehend, 
capture. 

Arrogance— Insolence,  vanity, 
presumption. 

Artful— Shrewd,  subtle,  crafty. 

Artifice— Fraud,  trick,  device. 

Artless— Fair,  frank,  honest. 

Assay— Test,  proof,  examination. 

Associate— Comrade,  friend,  part- 
ner, chum. 

Asperity— Acrimony  severity. 

Atrocious— W i c k e d ,  vicious, 
abominable. 

Attach— Adhere,  annex,  unite. 

Attachment— Tenderness,  affec- 
tion, love. 

Attic— Classical,  elegant,  pure. 

Attire— Apparel,  dress,  clothes. 

Attract— Allure,  draw,  entice. 

Attribute— Property,  characteris- 
tic, quality. 

Audacity— Daring,  impertinence, 
boldness. 

Audience— Assembly,  con  g  r  e  g  a- 
tion,  gathering. 

Augment— Increase,  enlarge,  mag- 
nify, expand. 

Auspices— Omens,  influence,  pat- 
ronage. 

Auspicious— Fortunate,  promis- 
ing, lucky,  propitious. 

Austere— Harsh,  cold,  severe. 

Authentic— Authorized,  true,  gen- 
uine, original. 

Author— Writer,  composer,  mak- 
er, creator,  r 

Authority— Warrant,  power, 
right. 

Avarice— Cupidity,  selfishness, 
greed,  coveteousness 

Averse— Unwilling,  reluctant, 
loath,  disinclined. 

A  version— A  ntipathy,  repug- 
nance, hatred. 

Avidity  —  Greediness,  intensity, 
eagerness.  [trade. 

Avocation  —  Profession,    calling, 

Axiom— Maxim,  aphorism,  truism. 

Avoid— Shun,  elude,  pass  by. 

Avouch  — Affirm,  declare,  main- 
tain, insist  on. 


Avow— Declare,  announce,  confess, 
acknowledge,  own, 

Awake— Watchful,  alive,  vigilant. 

Award— Prize,  judgment,  sentence, 
decision. 

Aware— Foreseeing,  watchful,  vig- 
ilant, conscious. 

Awe— Reverence,  fear,  dismay 

Awesome— Grewsome,  mystic,  un- 
canny. 

Aweary  —  Tired,  fatigued,  over- 
come. 

Awful— Solemn,  tragic,  dreadful, 
appalling. 

Awkward— Clumsy,  unhandy, 
bungling,  uncouth. 

Awkwardness— Roughness,  stiff- 
ness, boorishness. 

Awry— Aside,  uneven,  oblique. 

Aye— Always,  ever,  forever. 

Azure— sky-blue,  cerulean. 

B 

Babble— Idle  talk,  chatter,  noise. 

Babbler  —  Prattler,  demagogue, 
prater,  twaddler. 

Babyish— Childish,  silly,  infantile. 

Backbite  —  Scandalize,  defame, 
slander,  calumniate. 

Backbone— Courage,  energy,  de- 
termination. 

Backset  —  Check,  hindrance,  re- 
lapse. 

Backward— Shy,  hesitant,  retir- 
ing, averse. 

Bad— Wicked,  vicious,  evil. 

Baffle— Circumvent,  foil,  defeat. 

Baneful— Noxious,  hurtful,  perni- 
cious. 

Banter— Twit,  taunt,  ridicule. 

Base— Contemptible,  vile,  mean. 

Bear — Endure,  produce,  suffer. 

Beautify— Adorn,  embellish,  orna- 
ment. 

Becoming— Decent,  fit,  graceful, 
seemly,  comely. 

Belief— Opinion,  faith,  conviction, 
credence,  creed. 

Blame- Censure,  reproof,  reproach, 
disapprove. 

Bliss— Ecstasy,  gladness,  joy. 

Blemish— Flaw,  fault,  defect. 

Bloodshed— Slaughter,  carnage. 

Bloom— Flower,  bud,  blossom. 

Blunt— Pointless,  dull,  obtuse. 

Bold— Valiant,  intrepid,  daring. 

Booty— Plunder,  pillage,  spoils. 

Boundless  —  Limitless,  infinite, 
measureless. 

Brief— Short,  concise.succinct. 

Bright— Shining,  radiant,  lumin- 
ous, gleaming,  lustrous. 

Bud— Germinate,  sprout,  grow. 

Burden— Care,  sorrow,  trouble 


LEADING    SYNONYMS 


BUTT 


DESPOTIC 


Butt— Target,  mark,  object. 
Buxom— Lively,  jocund,  cheerful, 

good-humored. 
But— Still,  yet,  however. 
Buy— Purchase,  obtain,  bribe. 
Bygone— Past,  ancient,  antique. 


Cabal— Clique,  set,  league. 

Cajole— Coax,  flatter,  wheedle. 

Calamitous— Fatal,  unlucky,  dis- 
astrous. 

Call— Invite,  bid,  summon,  visit. 

Calm— Quiet,  tranquil,  serene. 

Calumniate  —  Slander,  defame, 
libel,  traduce. 

Caprice — Whim,  fancy,  humor. 

Care— Distress,  anxiety,  worry. 

Carousal— Feast,  banquet,  orgie, 
revel. 

Cause— Produce,  create,  occasion, 
effect,  originate.  [size. 

Cavil  at— Censure,  find  fault,  criti- 

Celebrate  —  Observe,  solemnize, 
honor,  commemorate. 

Censure— Blame,  reprove,  chide. 

Certain  —  Unquestionable,  real, 
sure,  positive. 

Chance— Hazard,  risk,  peril. 

Change— Alter,  vary,  turn. 

Charm  —  Fascinate,  delight,  en- 
trance, enrapture. 

Cheat— Deceit,  trick,  fraud. 

Cheer— Enliven,  gladden,  comfort, 
solace,  inspirit. 

Chide— Censure,  scold,  reprove. 

Choice — Preference,  selection,  op- 
tion. 

Circumstance— Incident,  occur- 
rence, occasion. 

Circumvent— Baffle,  defeat,  con- 
fuse, steal  a  march. 

Civil— Polite,  genial,.cultured. 

Civilization-Culture,  refinement, 
education. 

Claim— Demand,  pretension,  right, 
privilege. 

Class— Rank,  order,  degree. 

Clear— Manifest,  evident,  appar- 
ent, plain,  distinct. 

Clergyman— Minister,  preacher, 
divine,  pastor,  parson. 

Clever— Talented,  skillful,  wise. 

Climb— Soar,  mount,  ascend. 

Close— Compact,  dense,  airless. 

Coarse— Gruff,  rude,  uncivil. 

Cogent— Forcible,  powerful,  con- 
vincing, potent. 

Comfort— Cheer,  encouragement, 
soothing. 

Common— Customary,  general,  or- 
dinary, habitual. 

Compact— Contract,  bargain, 
agreement, 


Company— Party,  group,  gather- 
ing, association. 

Competent— Efficient,  fitted,  qual- 
ified, able,  suitable. 

Complex— Involved,  intricate, 
complicated. 

Conceal— Screen,  cover,  disguise, 
hide. 

Concur— Agree,  unite,  coincide. 

Confirm— Comply,  yield,  submit, 
ratify. 

Constant— Faithful,  true,  firm, 
steady,  trustworthy. 

Constrain— Compel,  coerce,  force, 
oblige. 

Consume— Absorb,  waste,  destroy, 
burn,  devour. 

Contact— Juncture,  touch,  associ- 
ation. 

Contend— Strive,  contest,  discuss, 
vie,  struggle. 

Contrary— Averse,  opposite, 
counter,  antagonistic. 

Control— Manage,  direct,  govern, 
restrain,  check. 

Convict— Judge,  condemn. 

Covert— Secret,  hidden,  concealed, 
underhand. 

Coy— Shy,  bashful,  demure. 

Criticize— Analyze,  examine,  dis- 
cnss,  scan. 

Cross— Angry,  fretful,  wrathful, 
irritable,  peevish. 

Cunning— Artful,  wily,  deceitful, 
crafty,  tricky. 

Curious— Rare,  unique,  queer 

Cursory— Superficial,  careless, 
hasty,  summary. 

Curtail— Reduce,shorten,retrench, 
abridge,  dock. 

Cutting— Sharp,  trenchant,  biting. 

D 

Dainty— Picturesque,  delicate, 
choice,  palatable. 

Dalliance — Pleasure,  gaiety,  ca- 
ressing. 

Dandy— Beau,  fop,  dude. 

Darfc— Gloomy,  rayless,  obscure. 

Deadly— Noxious,  fatal,  mortal. 

Decorum— Propriety,  decency,  or- 
der, seemliness. 

Decrease— Diminish,  lessen,  re- 
duce. 

Defeat— Baffle,  conquer,  foil. 

Denote— BetoKen,  mark,  imply. 

Deny— Gainsay,  contradict,  reject, 
refuse. 

Deride— Scoff,  banter,  mock 

Designate— Name,  call,  specifiy. 

Despicable— Mean,  vile,  worthless, 
contemptible. 

Despotic— Imperious,  absolute, 
arbitrary,  tyrannical 


266 


LEADING    SYNONYMS 


DESTINY 


FUTILE 


I>estiny— Fate,  lot,  doom. 

Devote— Consecrate,  apply,  give. 

Devout— Serious,  prayerful,  pious, 
religious,  godly. 

Difficult— Arduous,  hard,  trying, 
laborious. 

Diffident— Shy,  modest,  retiring, 
timid. 

Diligent— Earnest,  zealous.active, 
assiduous. 

Discord— Turmoil,    riot,    unrest, 

Discomfort— Trouble,  annoyance, 
disturbance. 

Discredit— Distrust,  disrepute,  ob- 
loquy, disgrace. 

Discuss— Debate,  argue,  agitate. 

Disgrace— Stain,  sully,  dishonor. 

Distaste— Aversion,  disgust,  con- 
tempt, repugnance. 

Divulge — Reveal,  disclose,  com- 
municate, tell. 

Doctrine— Dogma,  creed,  faith. 

Doleful— Melancholy,  mournful, 
sad,  rueful. 

Dull— Stupid,  sluggish,  obtuse. 

Dunce— Simpleton,  dolt,  fool. 


Eager— Zealous,  ardent,  impetu- 
ous, impatient. 

Earn— Acquire,  gain,  win. 

Earthly— Worldly,  sordid,  selfish. 

Ease— Comfort,  rest,  repose. 

Eccentric— Odd,  singular,  strange, 
abnormal. 

Educate— Train,  di  s  c  i  p  1  i  n  e,  in- 
struct, teach. 

Efface— Erase,  obliterate,  expunge, 
blot  out. 

Effort— Energy,  action,  force. 

Effrontery— B  o  1  d  n  e  s  s,  impert- 
inence, audacity. 

Elevate— Exalt,  promote,  raise. 

Embarrass— Vex.  annoy,  confuse, 
perplex. 

Embellish— Decorate,  ornament, 
illustrate,  beautify. 

Emblem— Parable,  symbol,  type, 
representation. 

Emotion— Sentiment,  feeling,  ag- 
itation, tremor. 

Employment— Occupation,  posi- 
tkm,  calling,  business*,  vocation. 

Enchant— Beguile,  fascinate, 
charm,  delight. 

Encourage— Embolden,  cheer,  an- 
imate, incite. 

End— Termination,  finish,  close, 
conclusion,  aim,  object. 

Endanger— Jeopardize,  imperil, 
risk. 

Endurance— Patience,  r  e  s  i  g  n  a- 
tion,  fortitude. 

Enemy— Adversary,  foe,  opponent. 


Engross— Occupy,  absorb,  engage, 
monopolize. 

Enhance — Raise,  heighten,  ad- 
vance, improve. 

Enlarge— Argument,  increase,  ex- 
tend, widen. 

Enoble— Elevate,  exalt,  uplift. 

Ennui— Languor,  weariness,  lassi- 
tude. 

Entice— Allure,  charm,  decoy. 

Envy— Jealousy,  suspicion,  selfish- 
ness. 

Ephemeral— Flitting,  passing, 
transient. 

Espouse— Marry,  wed,  betroth. 

Event— Occurrence,  incident,  oc- 
casion, episode. 

Evidence— Proof,  testimony,  at- 
testation. 

Excite— Arouse,  irritate,  provoke, 
incite,  kindle. 

Explain— Interpret,  elucidate,  un- 
fold, expound. 

Expression— Utterance,  declara- 
tion, phrase. 

Extricate— Deliver,  liberate,  dis- 
entangle. 

Extravagant— Lavish,  bountiful, 
prodigal. 

Exhnberant— Full,  copious,  lib- 
eral, luxuriant. 


Fable— Romance,  myth,  fiction. 

Fact— Reality,  incident,  circum- 
stance, occurrence. 

Facetious— Merry,  jocular,  wag- 
gish. 

Faithful— Constant,  loyal,  true. 

False— Treacherous,  deceptive,  un- 
true, mendacious. 

Fascinate— Charm,  bewitch,  ena- 
mour. 

Fat— Stout,corpulent,  obese,  fleshy. 

Fickle  —  Changeable,  capricious, 
inconstant.  [sonable. 

Feasible— Possible,  practical,  rea- 

Firm— Strong,  stable,  solid. 

Foresight— Prudence,  forecast, 
precaution. 

Fragile— Weak,  feeble,  frail. 

Frank— Open,  sincere,  artless. 

Free— Liberal,  unfettered,  open. 

Fretful— Peevish,  cross,  petulant, 
irritable. 

Fresh — New,  modern,  recent. 

Frighten— Scare,  alarm,  terrify. 

Frivolous— Silly,  trivial,  childish, 
worthless.  [parsimony. 

Frugality— Care,  thrift,  economy, 

Frustrate— Defeat,  foil,  hinder. 

Furious— Passionate,  angry,  viol- 
ent, boisterous,  mad. 

Futile— Useless,  vain,  idle. 


LEADING    SYNONYMS 


267 


GAGE 


INTERCEDE 


Q 

Gage— Security,  pledge,  challenge, 
guarantee. 

Oaiii— Advantage,  benefit,  profit. 

Gale—  Violent  wind,storm,tempest. 

Gang— Band,  party,  coterie. 

Garb— Dress,  apparel,  attire. 

Garble— F  a  1  s  i  f  y,  mutilate,  mis- 
quote, distort. 

Gaudy— Flashy,  loud,  demonstrat- 
ive. 

Gentle— Kindly,  tender,  gracious, 
mild,  meek. 

Get— Obtain,  secure,  gain. 

Gift— Present,  donation;  faculty, 
talent. 

Glad— Pleased,  rejoiced,  happy. 

Gloomy— Dismal,  cloudy,  sad. 

Graceful— Easy,  elegant,  becom- 
ing, comely. 

Grateful— Obliged,  thankful, 
pleasant. 

Great— Noble,  magnanimous,  man- 
ly, big, large. 

Grief— Distress,  sorrow,  regret. 

Guarantee-^-Pledge,  warrant, 
bond,  security. 

Guard— Guide,  govern,  protect. 

Guile— Artifice,  duplicity,  deceit. 

Guileless— Innocent,  bla  m  e  1  e  s  s, 
pure,  ingenuous. 

Guilty— Culpable,  sinful,  criminal. 

Guise — Fashion,  way,  manner,  ap- 
pearance, garb,  mien. 

Gyrate— Whirl,  rotate,  revolve. 

H 

Habit— Fashion,  custom,  guise. 

Hail— Greeting,  salute,  welcome. 

Hale— Healthy,  hearty,  robust. 

Handsome— C  o  m  e  1  y,  beautiful, 
fair,  generous. 

Happiness— Bliss,  beatitude,  de- 
light, felicity. 

Harass— Tire,  molest,  weary,  dis- 
turb, torment. 

Harbinger— Messenger,  forerun- 
ner, precursor. 

Hard— Near,  close,  unfeeling. 

Harm— Evil,  damage,  misfortune, 
mishap. 

Harmonize— Agree,  accord,  tally. 

Hatred—  Dislike,    aversion,    anti- 

ithy,  enmity,  repugnance, 
aughty  — Proud,  arrogant,  dis- 
dainful. 

Hazard— Risk,  peril,  chance. 

Headstrong  —  Stubborn,  obsti- 
nate, dogged. 

Heal— Remedy,  cure,  restore. 

Hearty  — Hale,  genial,  cordial, 
whole-souled. 


Helpless— Week,  feeble,  infirm. 

Help— Assistance,  aid,  support. 

Heroic  —  Courageous,  dauntless, 
brave,  fearless,  intrepid. 

Hinder— Thwart,  impede,  retard, 
prevent. 

Hold— Grasp,  keep,  possess. 

Hollow— Empty,  vacant,  void. 

Honor— Exhalt,  dignify,  revere. 

Hope— Trust,  desire,  expect. 

Hue— Tinge,  shade,  color. 

Humane— Brotherly,  kind,  sym- 
pathetic. » 

Humble— Modest,  meek,  lowly. 

Hypocrite— Cheat,  pretender,  im- 
postor. 


I 


Idea— Thought,opinion,conception, 
fancy. 

Ideal— Imaginary,  fancied,  unreal. 

Ignorant  —  Blind,  illiterate,  un- 
taught, uneducated. 

Ill-bred— Uncouth,  rude,  impolite, 
uncivil. 

Illness— Malady,  sickness,  disease. 

Illustrious— Celebrated,  famous, 
renowned. 

Imbecile— Impotent,  weak,  feeble- 
minded, 

Imminent— Dangerous,  threaten- 
ing, perilous. 

Impede— Delay,  hinder,  retard. 

Imperious  —  Dogmatic,  lordly, 
overbearing. 

I mjretuous— Violent,  furious,  pre- 
cipitate, 

Imprudent— Incautious,  rash,  in- 
discreet. 

Inapt  — Unfit,  inappropriate,  un- 
suitable, insufficient. 

Incompetent— Incapable,  unable, 
insufficient. 

Inconsistent  —  Contrary,  incom- 
patible, inharmonious. 

Indefinite— Vague,  doubtful,  un- 
certain. 

Ineffectual  —  Weak,  powerless, 
inoperative. 

Infamous— Outrageous,  disreput- 
able, scandalous. 

Infinite  — Boundless,  immeasura- 
ble. 

Influence— Power,  authority,  as- 
cendency, sway,  credit. 

Inherent— Natural,  ingrained,  in- 
born, inbred. 

Innocent— Harmless,  pure,  spot- 
less, guileless. 

Inordinate— Immoderate,  excess 
ive,  intemperate. 

Inquisitive  —  Curious,  prying 
meddling. 

Intercede— Plead,  arbitrate. 


268 


LEADING    SYNONYMS 


INTREPID 


MINDFUL 


Intrepid— Dauntless,  courageous, 
bold. 

Invade— Attack,  assault,  assail. 

Invent  —  Originate,  concoct,  dis- 
cover, devise.  [beseech. 

Invoke— Appeal  entreat,  implore, 

Invite — Ask,  request,  call. 

Irksome— Annoying,  trying,  vex- 
atious. 

Irritate— Fret,  nettle,  provoke. 

Irreligious  —  Godless,  profane, 
wicked,  ungodly. 


Jade— Fatigue,  weary,  harass. 

Jangle— Bicker,  fight,  disagree. 

Jarring— Conflicting,  contrary,  in- 
congruous. 

Jest— Quip,  sport,  joke. 

Jocund— Jolly,  mirthful,  gay. 

Join— Unite,  combine,  agree. 

Joke— Jest,  sally,  sport. 

Jollity— Merriment,  hilarity,  fun, 
conviviality.  [voyage. 

Journey — Excursion,  travel,  tour, 

Joy— Delight,  glee,  transport. 

Judgment— Opinion,  estimate. 

Judicious— Sensible,    wise,    pru- 

Just— Honest,  fair,  true.          [dent. 

Justice— Equity,  right,  fairness. 

Juvenile— Childish,  young,  youth- 
ful, puerile. 


K 


Ken— Reach,  view,  knowledge. 

Keen— Astute,  shrewd,  sagacious, 
eager,  ardent. 

Keep— Save,  hold,  retain. 

Key— -Clew,  guide,  solution. 

Kin— Friends,  relations,  clan. 

Kind— Good,  clement,  humane. 

Kindness  —  Sympathy,  compas- 
sion, gentleness.  [potentate. 

King — Ruler,  monarch,  sovereign, 

Kingly— Royal,  august,  imperial, 
magnificent. 

Knack— Trick,  habit,  method. 

Knave — Rogue,  vagabond,  thief. 

Knightly— Chivalrous,  courteous, 
courtly.  [prehend. 

Know— Understand,  perceive,  corn- 
Knowledge— Scholarship,  eru- 
dition, learning,  instruction 


Labor— Toil,  effort,  industry. 
Labyrinth— Maze,  perplexity. 
Lack— Need,  scarcity,  want. 
Lament— Mourn,  grieve,  bemoan, 
wail. 


Landscape— Prospect,  view,  scene, 
ontlook. 

Language— Speech,  dialect, 
tongue,  vernacular. 

Languish— Faint,  wither,  fade. 

Lank— Gaunt,  meagre,  thin, 
skinny. 

Large— Great,  big,  huge,  bulky. 

Lassitude— Ennui,  fatigue,  lan- 
guor. 

Latent— Unseen,  secret,  veiled. 

Lavish— Extravagant,  waste,  pro- 
fuse, prodigal. 

Lazy— Idle,  slothful,  inactive. 

Learning— Scholarship,erudition, 
education. 

Legacy— Gift,  bequest,  devise. 

Letter— Missive,  epistle,  note,  mes- 
sage. 

Liberty— Freedom,  leave,  privi- 
lege. 

Life— Vigor,  energy,  vitality. 

Like— Resembling,  similar,  uni- 
form. 

Linger— Loiter,  tarry,  wait. 

Lot— Doom,  fate,  destiny. 

Lofty— Proud,  dignified,  sublime, 
stately. 

Lonely— Solitary,  isolated,  com- 
panionless. 

Low— Despicable,  mean,  base. 

Loyal— Faithful,  chivalrous,  true, 
constant. 

Lucid— Clear,  bright,  transparent, 
translucent. 

Luck— Fortune,  chance,  hap. 

Luxury— Abundance,  elegance, 
profusion. 

Luxuriate— Revel,  wanton,  flour- 
ish. 


M 


Machination— Plot,  intrigue, 
stratagem. 

Mad— Crazy,  delirious,  insane. 

Magnificent— Grand,  sublime, 
splendid. 

Main— Principal,  leading,  chief. 

Maintain— Hold,  keep  up,  sustain, 
assert,  defend, 

Manifest— Apparent,  obvious,  evi- 
dent, clear,  patent. 

Manners  —  Breeding,  behavior, 
manners,  ways. 

Meek— Modest,  lowly,  gentle. 

Melody— Music,  unison,  concord, 
air,  tune. 

Mercy— Mildness,  clemency,  com- 
passion. 

Merry— Gay,  gleeful,  mirthful. 

Mind  — Reason,  intellect,  under- 
standing. 

Mindful— Thoughtful,  considerate, 
attentive. 


LEADING    SYNONYMS 


269 


MIRACLE 


PURE 


Miracle— Wonder,  sign,  marvel. 

Mistake— Error,  blunder.delusion, 
misconception. 

Model— Pattern,  mold,  sample. 

Modest—  Humble,  chaste,  pure. 

Morose— Sour,  sullen,  peevish. 

Mundane  —  Worldly,  terrestrial, 
earthly. 

Murmur— Repine,  whimper,  com- 
plain. 

Mutable— Wavering,  changing,  in- 
constant. 

Mutual  —  Reciprocal,  correlative, 
interchangeable. 

Mute  — Silent,  dumb,  speechless, 
voiceless. 

Mystify— Perplex,  baffle,  bewilder, 
deceive. 

N 

Naive— Artless,  simple,  ingenuous, 
guileless. 

Naked— Nude,  bare,  undressed. 

Name— Reputation,character,fame 
standing. 

Natural— Regular,  normal,  orig- 
inal, 

Near— Adjacent,  close,  adjoining, 
nigh. 

Need— Poverty,  penury,  want. 

Nefarious— Vicious,  wicked,  vil- 
lainous. 

Neglect— Overlook,  omit,  disre- 
gard, 

Negligent^Careless,  heedless,  in- 
attentive. 

Noble— Great,  illustrious,dignified, 
worthy. 

Note— Notice,  record,  statement. 

Noted— Celebrated,  popular,  fam- 
ous, eminent. 

Novel— Tale,  story,  romance. 

Noxious— Harmful,  hurtful,  dead- 
ly, deleterious. 

Number— Numeral,  multitude, 
many,  collection. 

Nurture— Discipline,  training, 
breeding. 


o 


Obedient— Compliant,  dutiful,  re- 
spectful, tractable. 

Object— Design,  aim,  purpose. 

Oblige— Please,  accommodate, 
serve,  compel,  force. 

Obscure— Dark,  vague,  unknown, 
indistinct. 

Observant— Watchful,  attentive, 
mindful. 

Obtain— Win,  procure,  acquire. 

Obviate— Hinder,  avoid,  prevent, 
provide  against. 


Obvious— Plain,    clear,    manifest 
apparent,  potent, 

Occupation— Calling,  pursuit, 
profession. 

Odd— Peculiar,  strange,  singular. 

Offense— Injury,  wrong,  insult. 

Officious— Active,  fussy,  forward, 
offensive. 

Opinion— View,  belief,  sentiment, 
idea,  notion. 

Oration— Discourse,  address,   lec- 
ture, harangue. 

Origin— Cause,  occasion,  spring. 

Ostentation— Flourish,  show,  dis- 
play, pomp. 

Overbearing:— Arrogant,  imperti- 
nent, imperious. 

•Overcome— Conquer,  subdue,  sur- 
mount. 

Overwhelm— Vanquish,  crush,  de- 
feat, conquer. 

Owner— Holder,  possessor,  propri- 
etor. 


Pabulum— Nourishment,  food, 
bread. 

Pacify— Appease,  calm,  solace. 

Pain — Suffering,  anguish,  agony, 
grief,  sorrow. 

Pair— Two,  couple,  brace. 

Paint— Color,  describe,  delineate. 

Pale— Pallid,  wan,  white. 

Palliate — Excuse,  extenuate,  cov- 
er, solten,  lessen. 

Palpable— Obvious,  tangible, 
plain,  manifest,  clear. 

Pang— Anguish,  agony,  suffering, 
twinge,  pain. 

Pardon— Grace,  mercy,  amnesty. 

Parody— Burlesque,  caricature, 
travesty. 

Partial— Warped,  unfair,  unjust, 
prejudiced. 

Passion— Ardor,  emotion,  zeal, 

Patience— Endurance,  fortitude, 
suffering,  resignation. 

Peculiar— Special,  singular,  rare, 
strange,  unusual. 

Peevish— Childish,  fretful,  petu- 
lant, touchy,  cross. 

Perform— Accomplish,  achieve, 
produce,  execute,  fulfil. 

Perfume— Aroma,  incense,  balm. 

Persuade— Urge,  induce,  woo, 

Pious— Religious,  saintly,  devout, 


Pique— Offense,  grudge,  umbrage, 

resentment. 

Plague— Tease,  fret,  bother. 
Prudish— Coy,   demure,    bashful, 

over-modest. 
Pure— Spotless,  chaste,  modest,  ?% 


270 


LEADING    SYNONYMS 


PURSUE 


RIGHTEOUS 


Pursue— Chase,  follow,  prosecute, 

track,  hunt. 
Puzzle— Mystery,  riddle,  enigma. 


Q 


Quack— Impostor,  pretender,  char- 
latan, humbug. 

Quail— Tremble,  cower,  shrink. 

Quaint— Odd,  curious,  fanciful. 

Quake— Tremble,  shake,  quiver. 

Quality  —  Rank,  attribute,  dis- 
tinction, characteristic. 

Quandary— Puzzle,  dilemma, 
strait,  perplexity. 

Queer— Quaint,  unique,  odd. 

Query  —  Question,  interrogation, 
inquiry. 

Question— Ask,  examine,  contro- 
vert, inquire. 

Questionable— Doubtful,  disput- 
able, suspicious. 

Quick— Alive,  active,  agile. 

Quiet— Still,  quiescent,  calm. 

Quit— Leave,  forsake,  vacate. 

Quiver— Tremble,  shudder,  shake, 
vibrate. 

Quota— Allotment,  share,  portion, 
contingent. 

Quotation— Extract,  excerpt,  se- 
lection, citation. 

Quote— Adduce,  cite,  extract. 


Rabid— Insane,  furious,  raving. 

Rabble — Mob,  rout,  crowd. 

Race— Breed,  family,  generation. 

Radiance— Brightness,  brilliancy, 
lustre,  splendor. 

Radical— Complete,  fundamental, 
thorough. 

Rapture— Ecstacy,  transport,  de- 
light, bliss. 

Rash— Headstrong,  impulsive,  has- 
ty, precipitate. 

Real— Genuine,  true,  actual. 

Reason— Argument,  motive,  proof, 
cause. 

Rebuke— Censure,  reproach,  rep- 
rimand. 

Recant— Recall,  retract,  renounce, 
abjure. 

Reckon  —  Count,  calculate,  com- 
pute, number,  estimate. 

Reclaim— Recover,  recall,  reform, 
regain. 

Reconcile— Conciliate,  propitiate, 
re-unite,  harmonize. 

Recreation— Diversion,  sport.pas- 
time. 

Recruit— Renew,  repress,  invigor- 
ate, strengthen,  regain. 


Rectify— Correct,  amend,  improve, 
adjust,  regulate. 

Recur— Revert,  return,  resort. 

Redeem— Rescue,  save,  ransom. 

Refined— Cultured,  polished,  gen- 
teel, courtly. 

Reform— Improve,  amend,  correct, 
ameliorate. 

Regale— Entertain,  feast,  refresh, 
delight,  gratify. 

Reg-ion— Tract,  vicinity,  clime. 

Remark — Innotation,  note,  com- 
ment, say,  notice. 

Reminiscence—  Recollection,  re- 
membrance, memory, 

Remiss— Dilatory,  slow,  inattent- 
ive, slack. 

Remorse— Compunction,  sorrow, 
regret. 

Renovate— Renew,  revive,  restore, 
repair,  rebuild. 

Renown— Celebrity,  fame,  reputa- 
tion, glory,  honor. 

Repeat— Repeat,  recite,  detail. 

Repel— Resist,  confront,  oppose. 

Reproach  —  Blame,  censure,  re- 
proof, upbraiding. 

Repugnance— Antipathy,  hatred, 
disgust. 

Requisite— Essential,  necessary, 
expedient. 

Requite — Compensate,  reward,  re- 
ciprocate, repay. 

Resign— Abdicate,  renounce,  fore- 
go, give  up. 

Resignation  —  Endurance,  sub- 
mission, patience. 

Resolute— Fixed,  determined,  de- 
cided, firm,  steadfast. 

Resource— Expedient,  means,  re- 
sort, contrivance. 

Respect— Honor,  esteem,  regard, 
veneration. 

Response— Answer,  rejoinder,  re 
ply,  repartee. 

Rest— Calm,  solace,  peace. 

Restore— Heal,  cure,  replace. 

Restrain  — Repress,  curb,  check, 
withhold,  limit,  constrain. 

Restrict— Bind,  limit,  confine. 

Reveal  —  Discover,  disclose,  im- 
part, uncover,  unvail. 

Revere— Honor,  reverence,  vene- 
rate. 

Reverse— Change,  overthrow,  sub- 
vert, overturn. 

Review— Examine,  inspect,  criti- 
cize. 

Revile  — Asperse,  vilify,  slander, 
calumniate,  abuse. 

Revive— Refresh,  quicken,  rouse. 

Ridicule— Mock,  lampoon,  chaff, 
jeer,  sneer  at. 

Right— Just,  proper,  true. 

Righteous— Devout,  religious,  up- 
right, honest. 


LEADING    SYNONYMS 


271 


RIGID 


STRANGE 


Rig-id— Stern,  severe,  harsh. 

Rigorous— Austere,  severe. 

Ripeness— Maturity,  growth.,  per- 
fection. 

Rivalry  —  Contention,  emulation, 
competition. 

Romance— Tale,  story,  fiction. 

Rough  —  Crude,  coarse,  violent, 
rude,  harsh,  severe,  gruff. 

Route— Way,  course,  path. 

Row  —  Disturbance,  affray,  riot, 
violent  trouble. 

Rule  —  Law,  government,  sway, 
command,  power. 

Rumor— Gossip,  news,  report. 

Rural— Country,  pastoral,  rustic. 

Ruthless  —  Cruel,  pitiless,  inhu- 
man, savage, 


Sable— Dark,  black,  gloomy,  mo- 
rose. 

Sacred— Holy,  divine,  devout. 

Sad— Depressed,  gloomy,  despair- 
ing, sorrowful. 

Safe— Guarded,  protected,  reliable, 
trustworthy. 

Sagacity— A  c  u  t  e  n  e  s  s,  discern- 
ment, penetration. 

Salute— Greet,  accost,  address. 

Sanction— Countenance,  support, 
confirm. 

Sane— Lucid,  sober,  sound. 

Sapient— Sagacious,  discreet,  wise, 
discerning. 

Satire— Irony,  sarcasm,  ridicule. 

Saucy  —  Rude,  insolent,  imperti- 
nent, impudent. 

Saying  —  Observation,  epigram, 
aphorism. 

Scarce  —  Rare,  singular,  uncom- 
mon, unique. 

Scatter— Sprinkle,  strew,  spread, 
disseminate. 

Scoff— Deride,  mock,  sneer. 

Scope — Aim,  drift,  tendency. 

Scurrilous— Abusive,  insolent,  of- 
fensive, gross,  vile. 

Sea— Main,  deep,  ocean. 

Secede— Recede,  retire,  withdraw, 
separate  from. 

Secure— Safe,  certain,  sure. 

Sedate — Calme,  serene,  composed. 

Sedulous— Assiduous,  diligent,  at- 
tentive, industrious. 

See— Perceive,  behold,  observe,  no- 
tice, discern,  discover,  realize. 

Secret  —  Concealed,  hidden,  un- 
known, stealthy,  surreptitious. 

Sense— Understanding,  perception, 
discernment,  feeling,  thought, 
judgment,  consciousness. 

Serene— Unruffled,  quiet,  calm. 

Servile— Fawning,  mean,  truck- 
ling, cringing,  low. 


Settled— Conclusive,  decided,  con- 
firmed, absolute. 

Several  —  Diverse,  different,  sun- 
dry, various, 

Shake— Totter,  shiver,  agitate. 

Shame— Reproach,  ignominy,  dis- 
grace, reproach. 

Shape— Mold,  fashion,  form. 

Sharpness— Acrimony,  keenness, 
cunning. 

Shelter  —  Refuge,  retreat,  defense, 
haven,  asylum. 

Shine— Gleam,  glisten,  glitter. 

Shock— Affright,  dismay,  alarm. 

Shocking— Terrible,  dreadful,  re- 
volting, horrible. 

Shorten— Curtail,  lessen,  reduce, 
abridge. 

Show— Parade,  display,  pomp. 

Showy— Gaudy,  fine,  grand. 

Shudder— Tremble,  quake,  shake, 
quiver,  shiver. 

Shun— Avoid,  evade,  elude. 

Sign— Symptom,  signal,  presage, 
mark,  token. 

Significant— Momentous,  expres- 
sive, indicative. 

Signify— Express,  denote,  declare, 
indicate,  mean. 

Silent— Taciturn,  mute,  dumb. 

Similarity— Likeness,  similitude, 
resemblance. 

Sincere— True,  honest,  incorrupt, 
straightforward. 

Singular— Peculiar,  strange,  odd, 
curious,  queer. 

Slander— Asperse,  blacken,  libel, 
defame,  calumniate. 

Slender— Slim,  fragile,  slight. 

Slow— Dilatory,  tedious,  dull,  slug- 
gish, tardy. 

Smooth— Mild,  easy,  bland. 

Smother— Stifle,  suffocate. 

Sneer— Jibe,  jeer,  scoff. 

Sober— Abstemious,  abstiment.tem- 
perate,  calm,  cool. 

Soft— Yielding,  flexible,  tractable, 
pliant,  mild,  gentle, 

Solemn— Serious,  grave. 

Solicit— Beg,  pray,  beseech,  peti- 
tion, ask. 

Solitary— Alone,  lonely,  sole,  only, 
single. 

Soothe— Compose,  calm,  quiet. 

Sort— Species,  kind,  order. 

Sour— Acid,  sharp,  tart,  pungent, 
acrimonious,  morose. 

Speech— Address,  sermon,  oration, 
lecture,  harangue. 

Sphere— Globe,  circle,  orb. 

Spite— Malice,  hatred,  grudge. 

Spread— Diffuse,  disperse,  scatter, 
sow,  disseminate. 

Sprinkle— Bedew,  scatter,  water. 

Stop— Check,  hinder,  delay,  rest. 

Strange— Curious,  eccentric. 


272 


LEADING    SYNONYMS 


STREAM 


TYRO 


Stream— Flow,  current,  river,  ten- 
dency, drift,  course. 

Stratagem— Artifice.'cheat,  sharp, 
work,  finesse. 

Strife— Contention,  discord. 

Stupid— Sleepy,  drowsy,  torpid. 

Sturdy— Firm,  robust,  strong. 

Subdue— Defeat,    vanquish,    con- 
quer, overthrow. 

Subjoin— Affix,  attach,  connect. 

Substantial— Solid,   real,   mater- 
ial, bulky. 

Subtract— Deduct,  withdraw,  take 
from. 

Successful— Prosperous,     fortun- 
ate, lucky. 

Succor— Aid,  help,  relieve. 

Suffer— Endure,  allow,  permit,  un- 
dergo, bear,  tolerate. 

Sufficient— Adequate,  enough. 

Suggest— Propose,  hint,  allude. 

Suitor— Beau,  lover,  wooer. 

Summary— Digest,   epitome,   ab 
stract,  compendium. 

Superficial— Slight,  flimsy,  shal 
low,  external. 

Sure— Reliable,  certain,  confident, 
positive. 

Surmount— Subdue,  conquer,  ov 
ercome,  surpass. 

Surplus— Excess,  residue,  remain- 
der. 

Surprise— Amazement,    a  d  m  i  r  - 
ation,  wonder. 

Suspense— Doubt,  hesitation. 

Swarm— Crowd,  throng,  multitude 
host,  great  number. 

Sweetheart— Admirer,  beau,  dar- 
ling, lover. 

Sweetness— Mildness,  gentleness, 
amiability. 

Symbol— Token,  sign,  emblem. 

Sympathy— Compassion,    condol- 
ence, fellow-feeling. 

Symptom— Indication,  mark,note, 
token,  sign. 

Synopsis— Summary,"epitome,  re"- 
sume. 

System— Method,  order,  scheme. 


Table— Board,  food,  fare. 
Tacit— Implied,  silent,  inferred. 
Tact— KnacK,  judgment,   address, 

skill,  discrimination,  discernment. 
Tale— Anecdote,  story. 
Talk— Conversation,  chat,  gossip, 

parley,  colloquy,  dialogue,  rumor. 
Tally — Accord,  agree,  match. 
Tame— Mild,  domesticated,  gentle, 

obedient,  spiritless. 
Tamper-Meddle,  trifle. 


Tardy— Late,  dilatory,  sluggish, 
slow,  behindhand. 

Taste-^Relish,  savor,  flavor. 

Taunt— Deride,  mock,  ridicule. 

Tease— Torment,  badger,  plague, 
worry,  tantalize. 

Tedious— Tardy,  tiresome,  slow. 

Tell— Acquaint,  communicate,  dis- 
close, say,  utter. 

Temper— Humor,  mood,  frame. 

Temporary— Fleeting,  transitory, 
transient,  passing. 

Tempt— Allure,  decoy,  induce,  en- 
tice, attract,  seduce. 

Tenderness— Fondness,  love,  af- 
fection, sensibility. 

Terrestrial— Earthly,  mundane, 
worldly, 

Test— Standard,  proof,  trial. 

Testimony— Proof,  evidence. 

Therefore— Consequently,  hence, 
accordingly,  on  that  account. 

Think— Surmise,  imagine,  ponder, 
consider,  cogitate. 

Thorough— Absolute,  complete, 
entire,  drastic,  powerful. 

Thought— Idea,  fancy,  reflection, 
conception,  notioh,cogitation,;sen- 
timent,  view,  opinion. 

Throw— Fling,  hurl,  heave,  cast. 

Time— Epoch,  era,  season. 

Timid— Afraid,  bashful. 

Tittle— Whit,  jot,  particle,  atom, 
grain,  iota. 

Tolerate— Allow,  suffer,  permit. 

Total— Sum,  gross,  entire,  whole. 

Tour— Trip,  journey,  jaunt. 

Trade— Occupation,  business,  com- 
merce, traffic. 

Traduce— Depreciate,  detract. 

Tranquility— Calm,  quiet,  peace, 
stillness. 

Transcend— Surpass,  exceed,  out- 
do, excel,  eclipse. 

Transgress— Violate,  break,  dis- 
obey, infringe. 

Transient— Short,  brief,  fleeting, 
transitory. 

Transport— Ecstasy,  delight,bliss, 
rapture. 

Tremendous— Dreadful,  terrible, 
fearful,  awful. 

Trip— Voyage,  journey,  excursion, 
tour,  jaunt. 

Troth— Faith,  fidelity,  belief. 

True— Candid,  genuine,  sincere. 

Truth— Verity,  fact,  reality,  exact- 
ness, precision,veracity,  accuracy. 

Trust— Belief,  credit,  faith. 

Try— Attempt,  endeavor. 

Tune— Air,  strain,  melody, 

Turn— Bend,  revolve,  whirl. 

Tyrant— Oppressor,  despot, 

Tyro  —  Beginner,  novice,  appren- 
tice. 


LEADING    SYNONYMS 


UGLY 


VIRTUE 


U 

Uffly— Uncomely,  plain,  homely. 

Ultimate  — Final,  eventual,  ex- 
treme, furthest,  last. 

Umbrage  —  Offense,  resentment, 
vexation,  displeasure. 

Umpire— Arbiter,  arbitrator,  ref- 
eree, judge. 

Unadorned— Ungarnished,  unein- 
bellished,  undecorated. 

Unassuming^— Modest,  unobstru- 
sive,  unpretending. 

Unbelief— Infidelity,  distrust,  in- 
credulity, disbelief. 

Unblemished  —  Pure,  unsullied, 
immaculate,  spotless,  unspotted. 

Unbounded— Infinite,  boundless, 
unlimited. 

Uncertain— Precarious,  doubtful, 
dubious,  i  unsettled,  ambiguous, 
vague,  indistinct. 

Undaunted  —  Bold,  courageous, 
fearless,  intrepid. 

Unhandy— Awkward,  clumsy,  un- 
gainly. 

Unkind— Harsh,  unfriendly,  cruel, 
inimical. 

Uniform— Same,  even,  alike. 

Unite— Agree,  combine. 

Unlike— Different,  dissimilar. 

Unlawful— Illegal,  unlicensed,  il- 
licit. 

Unmerciful— Cruel,  severe. 

Unpleasant  —  Disagreeable,  dis- 
pleasing, unpalatable. 

Unravel  —  Unfold,  reveal,  disen- 
tangle, explain. 

Unrelenting  —  Pitiless,  inexora- 
ble, unyielding,  hard. 

Unruly  —  Boisterous,  mutinous, 
rough,  ungovernable. 

Unseemly  —  Improper,  unbecom- 
ing, unfit,  indec<  TOUS. 

Unseen  —  Invisible,  spiritual,  un- 
revealed,  mysterious. 

Unsettled  — Uncertain,  wavering, 
turbid, 

Unspeakable— Inexpressible,  un- 
utterable. 

Unstable— Fickle,  inconstant. 

Unsteady  —  Unsettled,  wavering, 
variable,  fickle. 

Unwieldy— Heavy,  uncouth,  un- 
manageable, ponderous,  bulky. 

Unwilling  — Loath,  indisposed, 
reluctant,  averse. 

Upright— Erect,  honest,  bold. 

Uproar— Tumult,  clamor,  hubbub, 
disturbance. 

Uproot— Extirpate,  eradicate,  sup- 
press, eliminate. 

Urbanity— Courtesy,  civility,  su- 
avity, politeness 

Urge— Incite,  stimulate,  impel. 


Urgent  —  Pressing,  earnest,  im- 
portunate, earnest. 

Usage— Habit,  custom,  way,  prac- 
tice, use,  fashion. 

Useful— Helpful,  serviceable,  prof- 
itable, available. 

Useless— Fruitless,  vain,  Ineffect- 
ual, profitless,  worthless. 

Usurp — Appropriate,  seize,  arro- 
gate, assume. 

Utility— Use,  usefulness,  advan- 
tage, profit,  benefit,  service. 

Utter— Articulate,  enunciate,  pro* 
nounce,  speak. 

Utterly —Fully,  completely,  per- 
fectly, wholly,  totally. 

Uttermost— Utmost,  greatest,  far- 
thest. 

Unwelcome  —  Undesired,  unac- 
ceptable, displeasing. 


Vacate — Void,  annul,  leave. 

Vacillate— Waver,  fluctuate,  hesi- 
tate. 

Vague— Indefinite,  uncertain,  un« 
unsettled,  undetermined,  equivo- 
cal. 

Valiant  —  Intrepid,  courageous, 
fearless,  dauntless,  valorous,  gal- 
lant, heroic. 

Valid— Sound,  just,  logical. 

Vanity— Pride,  arrogance,  conceit, 
vain,  glory. 

Vanquish— Boat,  overcome,  con- 
quer, subdue. 

Vapid— Insipid,  flat,  spiritless. 

Variation— Vicissitude,  deviation, 
change,  alteration. 

Veer— Turn,  shift,  change. 

Venal— Hireling,  mercenary. 

Vengeance — Revenge,  retaliation, 
retribution. 

Venerate— Honor,  revere,  respect, 
reverence,  worship. 

Venture — Risk,  hazard. 

Veracity— Candor,  honesty,  truth- 
fulness. 

Verbal— Spoken,  unwritten,  oral. 

Verge— Border,  edge,  hem,  margin, 
limit,  brink. 

Versatile  —  Manifold,  clever,  tal- 
ented, changeable,  many-sided. 

Vestige— Mark,  trace,  track. 

Vicinity— Section,  neighborhood, 
nearness. 

Vicissitude  —  Change,  variation, 
revolution. 

Vigilant— Watchful,  guarded. 

Vile— Mean,  base,  worthless. 

Vindicate — Defend,  protect. 

Violent— Fierce,  hot,  vehement. 

Virtue  — Strength,  goodness,  in- 
tegrity, purity, 


274 


LEADING    SYNONYMS 


VIRGIN 


WRY 


Virgin— Girl,  maiden,  damsel. 

"Virtuous— Pure,  chaste,  good. 

Visible— Apparent,  discernible,  ob- 
vious, clear,  evident,  indisputable, 
palpable. 

Visionary— Fanciful,  imaginary, 
chimerical,  impracticable,  roman- 
tic. 

Vital— Necessary,  essential,  indis- 
pensable. 

Vitiate— Sully,  taint,  corrupt,  de- 
teriorate, spoil. 

Vivacious- -Sprightly,  brisk,  gay, 
lively,  merry. 

Vivid— Bright,  lucid,  clear. 

Vocation— Profession,  avocation, 
calling,  occupation.  » 

Voracious— Ravenous,  greedy,  in- 
satiable. 

Vouch— Attest,  assure,  aver,  war- 
rant, affirm. 

Vouchsafe— Condescend,  concede, 
•grant,  consent. 

Vulgar— Mean,  low,  ordinary,  com- 
mon, unrefined. 


W 


Wag— Humorist,  joker,  wit. 

"Wages— Compensation,  remunera- 
tion, salary,  stipend. 

Wail— Lament,  moan. 

Wait— Remain,  abide,  stay,  tarry, 
await. 

Wakeful— Sleepless,  watchful, 
vigilant,  wary. 

Walk— March,  step,  stride,  tramp, 
trudge,  plod,  stalk. 

Wan—  Pale,  white,  sickly. 

Wander— Stray,  stroll,  rove,  ram- 
ble, range,  err,  swerve. 

Want— Lack,  indigence,  deficiency, 
need,  poverty. 

Wanton— Reckless,  unbridled,  un- 
restrained, licentious,  dissolute. 

Wares— Goods,  merchandise,  com- 
modities. 

Warlike— Martial,  military,  hos- 
tile, bellicose. 

Warning— Caution,  notice,  advice, 
premonition. 

Wary— Shrewd,  prudent,  cautious, 
circumspect,  watchful. 

Wasteful— Destructive,  lavish,  ex- 
travagant, profuse. 

Watchful— Vigilant,  careful.wary, 
cautious,  observant. 

Way— Route,  means,  course,  road, 
method,  manner. 

Wayward— Froward,  wilful,  per- 
verse, obstinate, 

Weak— Feeble,  infirm,  helpless,  de- 
fenseless, lame,powerless,languid. 

Weal— Happiness,  prosperity,  suc- 
cess, welfare,  advantage. 


Wealth— Abundance,  opulence,  for- 
tune, riches. 

Weary— Tired,  exhausted,  fagged, 
fatigued,  harassed. 

Wedding— Marriage,  nuptials,  es- 
pousals. 

Weight— Burden,  load,  heaviness, 
consequence,  importance. 

Welcome— Acceptable,  agreeable, 
desirable. 

Welfare— Success,  weal,  prosper 
ity,  good  fortune. 

Well— Hale,  healthy,  hearty,  lively, 
strong,  sound,  vigorous? 

Wet— Moist,  damp,  humid. 

Wheedle— Flatter,  coax,  inveigle, 
entice,  cajole. 

Whereas— Since,  inasmuch  as,  see- 
ing that,  when  in  fact. 

Whimsical— Capricious,  freakish, 
fantastical. 

Whirl— Twirl,  revolve,  turn  rapid- 
ly, spin  around. 

White— Pure,  snowy,  stainless,  in- 
nocent,  clean,  unblemished. 

Whole— Entirety,  total,  complete- 
ness, integrity,  "tout  ensemble." 

Wicked— Bad, evil,  sinful.naughty, 
ungodly,  vicious,  dark,  foul,  black. 

Wide— Spacious,  broad,  extensive, 
ample,  removed,  distant. 

Will— Inclination,  desire,  wish,  de- 
cision, power. 

Wily— Crafty,  cunning,  artful,  sly, 
subtle. 

Win— Gain,  acquire,  earn. 

Wind— Twine,  coil,  twist,  encircle, 
curve, 

Winning— Attractive,  charming, 
bewitching,  alluring,  fascinating. 

Wit— Humor,  irony,  acumen. 

Withdraw— Retire,  recede,  recall, 
retract,  draw  back,  retreat. 

Withhold— Retain,  refrain,  from, 
keep  back,  restrain,  reserve. 

Wizard— Magician,  sorcerer,  con- 

Wurer,  necromancer,  witch, 
oeful— Doleful,  piteous,  rueful, 

sorrowful. 
Wonder— Amazement,  a  s  t  o  n  ish- 

ment,  surprise,  miracle,  prodigy. 
Work— Toil,  labor,  drudgery,  task, 

employment,  occupation. 
World— Universe,   globe,  cosmos, 

earth,  people,  society. 
Worthy— Excellent,   good,   estim- 
able, commendable. 
Wrath— Anger,  rage,  choler,  fury, 

passion,  exasperation. 
Wrench— Tear  off,  wrest,  strain, 

distort,  wring,  extort. 
Wretched— Bad,  vile,  unhappy 
Wrong— Untrue,  faulty,  not  fit. 
Wrought— Done,  performed. 
Wry— Distorted,  crooked,  twisted, 

awry. 


THE  USE  OF  CAPITALS 


275 


YEARLY 


ZONE 


Yearly— Annually,  per  annum. 

Yearn— Long,  desire  ardently,  cov- 
et, crave,  be  eager  for. 

Yell— Scream,  shriek,  call  out. 

Yet— But,  still,  besides. 

Yield— Allow,  concede,  give. 

Yielding:— Compliant,  submissive, 
unresisting,  supple. 

Yoke— Link,  chain,  bond. 

Young— Youthful,  juvenile.boyish. 

Youth— Boy,  stripling. 


Zeal— Fervor,  ardor,  passion. 
Zealot— Bigot,  fanatic,  enthusiast, 

visionary,  devotee. 
Zealous— Earnest,  fervid,  glowing, 

ardent,  eager. 

Zenith— Top,  apex,  summit. 
Zephyr— Breeze,  the   west  wind, 

calm. 

Zero— Cipher,  naught,  nothing. 
Zest— Flavor,  taste,  relish. 
Zone— Belt,  clime,  region. 


THE  USE  OF  CAPITALS. 

1.  Every  entire  sentence  should  begin  with  a  capital. 

2.  Proper  names,  and  adjectives  derived  from  these,  should  begin 
with  capitals. 

3.  All  appellations  of  the  Diety  should  begin  with  a  capital. 

4.  Official  and  honorary  titles  begin  with  a  capital. 

5.  Every  line  of  poetry  should  begin  with  a  capital. 

6.  Titles  of  books  and  the  heads  of  their  chapters  and  divisions  are 
printed  in  capitals. 

7.  The  pronoun  I  and  the  exclamation  O  are  always  capitals. 

8.  The  days  of  the  week  and  the  months  of   the   year  begin  with 
capitals. 

9.  Every  quotation  should  begin  with  a  capital  letter. 

10.  Names  of  religious  denominations  begin  with  capitals. 

11.  In  preparing  accounts,  each  item  should  begin  with  a  capital. 

12.  Any  word  of  very  special  importance  may  begin  with  a  capital. 


, 


LETTER    POSTAGE. 


UNITED     STATES. 

FIRST-CLASS  MATTER  (Letters,  etc.),  per  ounce,  ....  2  cents 
FIRST-CLASS  MATTER — Letters  and  all  other  written  matter  (whether 
sealed  or  not),  excepting  manuscript  copy  accompanying  proof-sheets, 
also  all  matter  sealed,  2  cents  an  ounce,  excepting  drop-letters  at  non- 
carrier  offices,  1  cent  an  ounce.  (Postal  Cards  Ic  each.) 

OTHER  COUNTRIES. 

The  rates  of  postage  to  all  foreign  countries  and  colonies  belonging 
to  the  Postal  Union,  are  as  follows  : 

Letters,  per  15  grams  (%  ounce),  5  cents.    Postal  cards,    each,    2  cents. 
Newspaper  and  other  printed  matter,    per  2  ounces,      ...     1  cent. 


276  AN  AMUSING  LETTER 

Commercial  paper  (such  as  legal   and  insurance  papers,  deeds, 
bills  of  lading,  invoices,  manuscript  for  publication,  etc.): 

Packets  not  in  excess  of  10  ounces 5  cents. 

Packets  in  excess  of  10  ozs.,  each  2  ozs.,  or  fraction  thereof,  1  cent. 
Registration  fee  on  letters  or  other  articles, 8  cents. 

Ordinary  letters  for  countries  of  the  Postal  Union  will  be  forwarded,  whether 
any  postage  is  prepaid  on  them  or  not.  All  other  mailable  matter  must  be  prepaid 
at  least  partially.  Mail  matter  for  Hawaii  and  Cuba,  if  addressed  to  persons  in 
the  service  of  the  United  States,  should  be  prepaid  at  domestic  rates,  and  at 
Postal  Union  rates  if  addressed  to  other  persons.  Domestic  rates  apply  to  Porto 
Rico,  Guam  and  the  Philippine  Islands. 


AN  AMUSING  LETTER 

The  following  letter  in  "buba"  English,  composed  by  a  Hindoo 
graduate  of  Calcutta  University  is  reproduced  here  for  amusement  rather 
than  for  imitation: 

"To  Babu  Kaly  Churan  Ghose,  Paternal  Father  of  Miss  Churan 
Ghose.  Dear  Sir: —  It  is  with  faltering  penmanship  that  I  write  to  have 
communication  with  you  about  the  prospective  condition  of  your  damsel 
offspring.  For  remote  time  past  secret  passion  has  firing  my  bosom  in- 
ternally with  loving  for  your  daughter. 

"I  have  traveled  all  channels  in  the  magnitude  of  my  extensive  juris- 
diction cruelly  to  smother  the  growing  love-knot  that  is  being  constructed 
within  my  inside,  but  the  timid  lamp  of  my  affection,  trimmed  by  Cupid's 
productive  hands  still  nourishes  my  love-sickened  breast. 

"Needless  would  it  be  for  me  to  numerically  extemporize  the  great 
conflagration  that  has  generated  in  my  head  and-  heart.  During  the 
region  of  nightness  my  intellectual  cranium  has  been  entangled  in 
thoughtful  attitude  for  my  beloved  consort.  Nocturnal  slumberlessness 
has  been  the  infirmity  which  has  besieged  my  now  degenerate  constitution. 

"My  educational  abilities  have  abandoned  me,  and  now  I  cling  to 
those  lovely  long  tresses  for  your  much  coveted  daughter  like  mariner 
shipwrecked  on  rock  of  love. 

"As  to  my  scholastic  calabre,  I  was  recently  ejected  from  Calcutta 
University.  I  am  now  masticating  and  will  make  a  motion  as  soon  as  I 
can  perceive  the  business  of  life  a  little  laxative. 

"I  am  of  lofty  and  original  lineage  and  independent  incomes  and 
hoping  that  having  debated  proposition  in  your  pregnant  mind  you  will 
concordantly  corroborate  in  espousing  your  female  progeny  to  my  tender 
bosom  and  thereby  acquire  me  into  your  family  circle  as  yours  faithful 

"Moxi  LALL  CHATTERJEE." 


14  DAY  USE 

RETURN  TO  DESK  FROM  WHICH  BORROWED 

LOAN  DEPT. 

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Tel.  No.  642-3405 

Renewals  may  be  made  4  days  prior  to  date  due. 
Renewed  books  are  subject  to  immediate  recall. 


DGe  end  of 

...h!Prt 


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